HI HCR170

Requests the Department of Transportation to convene a working group to establish and recommend federal, state, and county subsidies for waterborne cargo transport in Hawaii.

Working group composition includes the Transportation Director (as chair), Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism, Board of Agriculture Chairperson, one Senate member, one House member, transportation committee chairs from both chambers, county mayors, and representatives from each water carrier operating in Hawaii.

Directs the Department of Transportation to work with the U.S. Department of Transportation, Hawaii's congressional delegation, and state legislative transportation committees to develop federal and local cargo subsidy programs and draft legislation.

Over 98 percent of Hawaii's imported goods (which comprise over 80 percent of all goods consumed in the state) are transported by water, with shipping costs adding up to 7.5 percent to the cost of goods, making subsidies critical for food security and affordability.

Department of Transportation must submit a progress report to the Legislature no later than 20 days before the 2026 regular session begins.