HB 1129 Summary

• Establishes a three-member maritime commission within the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to regulate water carriers, replacing the Public Utilities Commission's oversight role.

• Maritime Commission members serve six-year terms (first appointees serve staggered two, four, and six-year terms), with the governor designating one member as chairperson; members must have maritime transportation experience and cannot have financial interests in water carriers.

• Transfers all regulatory functions, staff, records, and property of the Public Utilities Commission related to water carriers to the new maritime commission; employees retain civil service status and benefits.

• Establishes a maritime commission special fund supported by water carrier fees (one-fourth of one percent of gross annual income or $30, whichever is greater, due semi-annually).

• Effective July 1, 2022; appropriates funds to establish the maritime commission special fund.