October 11, 2007

Hawaii Superferry pins hopes on special legislation

Hawaii House Speaker Calvin Say and Senate President Colleen Hanabusa met with Governor Linda Lingle behind closed doors yesterday to discuss moves to help the Hawaii Superferry.

The meeting came after Maui Judge Joseph Cardoza ruled against Hawaii Superferry resuming service to Maui while an environmental assessment is performed.

That assessment could take several months and meantime Superferry is losing an estimated $650,000 a month,

Now Governor Lingle, Hanabusa and Say plan to get input from lawmakers about a bill that would let the Superferry operate while an environmental assessment is being conducted.

Hawaii Superferry has set up a page on its website to encourage supporters to let local legislators know their feelings.

It provides links enabling emails to be sent to all Hawaii state Representatives and Senators and suggests cutting and pasting the following message:

Subject: Please support Hawaii Superferry

Dear Legislator:

I support a special session of the Hawaii State Legislature to identify a solution that would enable Hawaii Superferry to continue operation while the environmental assessment is being conducted.

The people of Hawaii want interisland transportation choices. Hawaii Superferry is a transportation alternative that is wanted and needed by residents and businesses of Hawaii and will bring many benefits to our state.

Prompt action is needed to save this transportation option and protect Hawaii's business climate.

Mahalo,