Hawaii House Bill HR112

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/16/26
• Refer: 3/18/26

Caption

Requesting The Department Of Transportation And Public Utilities Commission To Develop A Framework To Regulate Transportation Network Companies Under The Motor Carrier Law.

Summary

H.R. 112 is a House Resolution requesting the Hawaii Department of Transportation and the Public Utilities Commission to develop a regulatory framework for transportation network companies (TNCs), such as app-based ride-hailing services that connect passengers with drivers using personal vehicles. The resolution states that TNCs have become an important part of the state’s transportation system and increasingly operate in ways similar to regulated passenger motor carriers, but are not currently regulated under Hawaii’s Motor Carrier Law. The resolution asks the two agencies to examine how TNCs could be brought under that law and to submit a report to the Legislature with findings, recommendations, and any proposed legislation by twenty days before the 2027 Regular Session. As a resolution, it does not itself change statutory law, but it directs agency study and may lead to future legislation that would amend Hawaii’s transportation regulatory scheme.

Impact

If adopted and acted upon, the resolution would affect the Department of Transportation and the Public Utilities Commission by tasking them with studying and proposing a framework for regulating transportation network companies under the Motor Carrier Law. It would not directly alter existing statutes, licensing rules, or enforcement authority, but it could lead to future changes affecting ride-hailing companies, drivers, passengers, and the broader passenger transportation market in Hawaii.

Sentiment

The available text reflects generally supportive sentiment toward the resolution. Its findings emphasize fairness, uniform safety standards, and consumer clarity, suggesting the measure is framed as a practical step to align regulation with current transportation practices. No votes or committee transcripts are available, so there is no recorded opposition or debate in the provided materials.

Contention

The main policy issue is whether transportation network companies should be regulated like traditional passenger motor carriers, which could impose new compliance obligations on app-based ride services and their drivers. Supporters appear to favor parity, safety, and clearer consumer protections, while potential concerns would likely center on regulatory burden, the fit of existing motor carrier rules to platform-based services, and the effect on innovation and service availability. No specific objections are documented in the provided record.