Honorable Robert Bunda

President of the Senate

Twenty-First State Legislature

Third Special Session of 2001

State of Hawaii

Sir:

Your Committee on Ways and Means, to which was referred S.B. No. 11 entitled:

begs leave to report as follows:

The purpose of this measure is to appropriate funds to strengthen security at state airports, state harbors, and state highways and for other improvements at state airports.

Your Committee received supporting testimony from the Department of Transportation, the Maui Hotel Association, and the Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii.

Your Committee finds that strengthening security at all transportation access points (water, air, and roads) will help passengers, both tourists and residents alike, feel more confident to travel in our State. This will help the economy by increasing travel to stores, to neighbor islands, for cruise ships, and every facet of life that is affected by transportation. This measure takes a significant step toward revitalizing and rejuvenating Hawaii's present economic situation.

Since September 11, 2001, many people have felt insecure because notions of our physical safety have been severely tested. Until the State finds ways to restore the feeling of safety and personal confidence, travel of any and every variety will continue to be impacted. In enacting this measure, your Committee believes steps will be taken to make travel safe once again in Hawaii, allowing everyone to feel confident in boarding and traveling in a plane, ship, or car.

As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Ways and Means that is attached to this report, your Committee concurs with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 11 and recommends that it pass Second Reading and be placed on the calendar for Third Reading.