HI HR88

Urges the President of the United States and U.S. Congress to exempt Hawaii from the Merchant Marine Act of 1920 (Jones Act), which requires all goods shipped between U.S. ports to use U.S.-flagged and U.S.-built ships.

Highlights that Hawaii imports approximately 80% of goods, 90% of food, and 95% of energy resources, and unlike other states cannot receive shipments via trucks or trains due to geographic isolation over 2,400 miles from the mainland.

Notes a shortage of U.S.-flagged oil tankers makes it difficult for Hawaii to import energy resources from the U.S. mainland.

States that a Jones Act exemption would allow Hawaii to reduce dependence on foreign oil and increase energy imports from California.

Directs that certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States and Hawaii's congressional delegation.