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HB 2386

RELATING TO WATER CARRIERS.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Cory Chun and 7 co-sponsors

HB 2386 regulates Hawaii's water carrier operations, likely affecting water distribution costs, service standards, and consumer protections across the islands.

Passed Third Reading as amended in HD 2 with Representative(s) Cochran, Ilagan, Keohokapu-Lee Loy, Poepoe, Souza voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Alcos, Garcia, Gedeon, Iwamoto, Kapela, Lowen, Matsumoto, Pierick, Shimizu, Tam voting no (10) and none excused (0). Transmitted to Senate.
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Bill Summary · HB 2386

Legislative bill overview

HB 2386 is a Hawaiian bill currently in early legislative stages that addresses regulations or requirements for water carriers—entities that transport water commercially or for public use. The bill has passed first reading and been referred to the Transportation (TRN) and Consumer Protection and Commerce (CPC) committees for review. Without access to the full bill text, the specific provisions remain unclear, but the dual committee referral suggests it involves both operational/infrastructure and consumer protection dimensions.

Why is this important

Hawaii's water security and transportation infrastructure are critical issues given the islands' geographic isolation and limited freshwater resources. Legislation governing water carriers could affect water distribution costs, service reliability, environmental protections, and consumer access to safe water—all directly impacting residents' daily lives and economic activity. Given climate pressures and population demands on Hawaiian water systems, regulatory clarity is consequential.

Potential points of contention

  • Rate regulation vs. operational costs: Determining appropriate pricing structures for water carriers while ensuring service sustainability without excessive consumer burden
  • Environmental and safety standards: Balancing stricter quality and transport regulations against compliance costs that could be passed to consumers
  • Public vs. private carrier roles: Defining the relationship between government water systems and private water transport providers, and whether the bill favors one sector over another

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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