Hawaii House Bill HR116

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/13/24
• Report Pass: 3/28/24
• Report Pass: 4/4/24
• Refer: 3/28/24
• Passed: 4/4/24

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Transportation To Study And Recommend Solutions To Resolve Supply Chain Issues Caused By Barge Delays To Lanai.

Impact

If enacted, HR116 could lead to important legislative and infrastructural changes aimed at addressing transportation issues specific to Lānaʻi. The resolution calls for a thorough study that will explore multiple strategies, including increasing storage facilities for perishable and non-perishable goods at Kaumalapau Harbor. This could ultimately enhance the resilience of the local supply chain and reduce dependence on barge services that are prone to delays due to environmental factors.

Summary

HR116 is a resolution introduced in the Thirty-Second Legislature of Hawaii, requesting the Department of Transportation to study and recommend solutions to the supply chain issues caused by delays in barge deliveries to Lānaʻi. The resolution emphasizes the significant reliance of Lānaʻi's small businesses on interisland barges for the delivery of essential goods, which have been notably affected by poor weather and ocean conditions, leading to prolonged delays in service. As such, local businesses are facing operational challenges and supply shortages, including forced temporary closures and reduced services.

Contention

Given the nature of the resolution, the primary points of contention are likely to revolve around resource allocation, the feasibility of proposed solutions, and the balance between environmental considerations and economic needs. Stakeholders including local businesses, shipping companies, and governmental entities will need to collaborate, as the resolution encourages the Department of Transportation to engage with these groups in formulating viable recommendations. Furthermore, the complexities of funding any new initiatives that may arise from this study could also prompt debate.