Updated at 3:49 p.m., Monday, October 29, 2007
State Senate passes compromise Hawaii Superferry bill
Advertiser Staff
The state Senate this morning voted 20 to 5 to pass a compromise bill that would allow Hawaii Superferry to resume operations while the state conducts an environmental impact statement.The bill also would set specific operating conditions to help protect whales and prevent the spread of invasive species.
Although the vote appeared lopsided, several senators voted with reservations, reflecting misgivings about the process of coming back into special session to help save the project.
The state House has scheduled committee hearings on the bill this afternoon.
The Lingle administration and Superferry executives have backed the Senate version of the bill, making it likely that House lawmakers will also agree.
The bill requires the Lingle administration to impose operating conditions on the ferry to protect the environment. It also would create an oversight task force to monitor the project and report back to the Legislature.
The bill also includes language protecting the state from liability from lawsuits by Superferry because of delays in ferry service.
The bill would overturn a Maui court ruling barring the ferry from Kahului Harbor while the state conducts the environmental review.
Lawmakers hope to adjourn the session Wednesday.
