Bill > SB1478

This bill establishes new regulations for commercial harbor evacuations during emergencies, requiring vessel masters or persons in charge of vessels to immediately comply with evacuation orders issued by harbor masters. The bill defines an "emergency" as specified in existing state law and "evacuation" as the rapid movement of individuals and vessels away from a potential or actual hazard. Violators will face significant penalties, including a $10,000 fine per day per vessel and potential loss of harbor entry and operating privileges for one year. The bill also amends existing statutes to specify that fines collected from these violations will be paid into the harbor special fund, which supports the statewide system of harbors, including operational, maintenance, and improvement costs. The new provisions will take effect on July 1, 2050, and broadly apply to all watercraft capable of transportation on water, with enforcement authority given to harbor masters, including district managers and commercial harbor agents. The primary goal appears to be ensuring public safety and maintaining orderly evacuation procedures in commercial harbors during emergency situations.

Justice, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1478&year=2026