Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-First State Legislature

Regular Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Ways and Means, to which was referred S.B. No. 876, S.D. 1, entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to authorize the Department of Transportation to issue special facility revenue bonds to enable a private ferry service, Rainbow Island Express, to operate interisland and intraisland ferry services.

Your Committee finds that the option of ferry services for both residents and tourists alike can be a worthwhile alternative transportation option. Residents who wish to forego traffic congestion might wish to try a ferry service in their daily commute. Tourists would be able to see the islands from a perspective other than a car or plane. Your Committee finds that this measure will enable a private entity to provide these options through an interisland and intraisland ferry service.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Ways and Means that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 876, S.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.