HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Public Utilities Commission approved a limited temporary rate increase for Young Brothers, LLC, the commission announced on June 27.
The decision comes after Young Brothers claimed that their financial struggles would threaten their ability to provide proper interisland shipping services.
According to the commission, the objective for the rate increase is to minimize the impact on customers and service.
The commission authorized a temporary rate increase of 18.1%, which is lower than the 25% increase Young Brothers requested.
The 18.1% increase was based on an assessment of the minimum amount necessary to allow the company to continue providing their shipping services while the commission weighs a general rate case.
The temporary increase goes into effect on July 1, and expires at the end of the year or when the general rate increase for Young Brothers is resolved, whichever comes first.
A temporary additive increase of the Island Agricultural Product Discount by 2% for Less-than-Container Load and Container shipments was also approved by the commission.
Young Brothers is required to conduct community meetings, including hybrid options, on each affected island to explain the increase, listen to feedback and answer questions.
As the commission investigates the general rate increase, residents and businesses are encouraged to submit public comments and to participate in upcoming community meetings. To submit a public comment, visit the commission’s website and reference Docket No. 2024-0255 in the submission.