Hawaii Senate Bill SB2171

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/26
• Refer: 1/26/26

Caption

Relating To Water Carriers.

Impact

The most significant impact of SB2171 is the transfer of regulatory authority for water carriers from the Public Utilities Commission to the Department of Transportation. This transition is intended to streamline operations and create a more focused regulatory environment for water transportation. It also introduces specific provisions for preferential rates aimed at agricultural activities, allowing the department to authorize lower service rates for agricultural users, which could benefit local farmers and food production sectors.

Summary

SB2171 proposes to amend Chapter 271G of the Hawaii Revised Statutes to address the regulation and oversight of water carriers in Hawaii. The bill establishes a requirement for water carriers to obtain a certificate of public convenience and necessity from the Department of Transportation before operating in the state. This measure aims to ensure that only qualified carriers are permitted to engage in the transportation of passengers and property by water for compensation, thereby enhancing the safety and dependability of water transportation services within the state.

Contention

Despite its intended benefits, SB2171 may face criticism regarding the implications of increased regulation on water carriers. Concerns have been raised about how these changes might affect the operational flexibility of smaller carriers and potentially lead to higher costs for consumers. Additionally, the bill's new liability provisions, which hold water carriers responsible for any damage, may raise questions regarding the balance of accountability versus operational risk and could provoke pushback from industry stakeholders who feel the regulations are overly burdensome.