Hawaii House Bill HCR111

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/24
• Refer: 3/13/24

Caption

Requesting The Governor To Take Any Actions Necessary To Reestablish An Interisland Ferry System In The State.

Impact

The resolution proposes that reintroducing an interisland ferry system could enhance connectivity between the islands, offering a more cost-effective and convenient transportation method. This would not only benefit residents who frequently travel between islands but also support tourism, enabling visitors to experience multiple islands more easily. The resolution signifies a move towards diversified transportation options, reducing reliance on air travel, which can be more costly and less environmentally sustainable.

Summary

House Concurrent Resolution 111 (HCR111) aims to request the Governor of Hawaii to take necessary actions to reestablish an interisland ferry system within the state. The resolution highlights the geographical nature of Hawaii as an archipelago, emphasizing the need for efficient inter-island transport options. Currently, residents and visitors heavily rely on air travel for inter-island transport, and the resolution points to the previous existence of the Hawaii Superferry, which operated between Maui and Oahu from December 2007 to July 2009, providing an alternative means of transportation for people and vehicles.

Contention

While the resolution does not detail specific points of contention, the reestablishment of a ferry system would likely involve discussions surrounding environmental impacts, regulatory hurdles, and economic viability. Stakeholders may have differing opinions on the investments required for such a transportation system and the operational challenges that may arise. Furthermore, the previous iteration of the Hawaii Superferry faced significant opposition due to environmental concerns, suggesting that future endeavors to establish a ferry service may also encounter scrutiny in these areas.