Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Judiciary, to which was referred S.B. No. 216 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to require all vessels operating in the waters of the State to be equipped with a functioning emergency position indicating radio beacon (EPIRB). Canoes, surfboards, and paddleboards are exempted from this requirement.

Your Committee received testimony in favor of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Pacific Whale Foundation, and Hawaii Ocean Safety Team. Opposing testimony was received from Paradise Cruise, Ltd., and one individual.

Your Committee finds that improving communications with vessels out to sea can dramatically enhance maritime safety. The use of an EPIRB reduces the time and effort required to successfully complete a search and rescue mission. In many cases, loss of life could have been avoided had an emergency communication device, such as an EPIRB, been available. By requiring an EPIRB for all vessels, maritime activities can be made safer for participants.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Judiciary that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 216 and recommends that it pass Third Reading.