STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1726

Honolulu, Hawaii

RE: H.B. No. 1422

H.D. 2

S.D. 1

Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi

President of the Senate

Thirty-Third State Legislature

Regular Session of 2025

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection, to which was referred H.B. No. 1422, H.D. 2, S.D. 1, entitled:

"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO MOTOR CARRIERS,"

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose and intent of this measure is to exempt community-based organizations that provide transportation services from the State's Motor Carrier Law, under certain circumstances.

Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Land and Natural Resources, Department of Transportation, Office of Economic Development for the County of Kauaʻi, Hui Makaʻāinana o Makana, The Hanalei Initiative, and two individuals.

Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Public Utilities Commission.

Your Committee finds that there is currently a shortage of drivers with commercial driver's licenses in the State. Many of the State's popular natural attractions, including its beach parks, scenic viewpoints, hiking trails, wildlife habitats, and other natural attractions are often located near areas with high traffic congestion or limited parking along state highways and county roads. Your Committee further finds that community-based nonprofit organizations that provide transportation services have proven to have effectively alleviated congestion in these areas, but existing regulations do not account for the unique role of these organizations and are hindering their ability to continue their operations. This measure aims to support the ongoing efforts of community-based nonprofit organizations that provide transportation services by exempting them from certain motor carrier regulatory requirements to allow them to continue providing essential transportation services throughout the State.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of H.B. No. 1422, H.D. 2, S.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.

Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Commerce and Consumer Protection,

________________________________

JARRETT KEOHOKALOLE, Chair