Representative raises oversight concerns about proposal to exempt new 'sea glider' transport from PUC review

During floor consideration of standing committee reports, Representative Iwamoto spoke at length about a provision she said would exempt a new passenger sea-gliding transport method from oversight by the state Public Utilities Commission (PUC).

"This bill feels a little premature," Iwamoto said, noting community concerns about where to raise questions about noise and marine-safety risks. "I heard in committee that the Coast Guard would be the one to have to oversee the flight path... I think people are very comfortable with the PUC being a place where there can be third-party interveners... it's just unclear to me where community members would take concerns with the Coast Guard." The comments came while the House considered Standing Committee Reports 1803-26 and 1804-26; the measures were adopted by voice vote.

Iwamoto specifically flagged potential safety and environmental issues if a vessel that glides near the ocean surface operates near whales. She asked where coastal residents and other stakeholders could register and have their concerns heard if regulation shifted to a federal maritime authority rather than a state utility regulator. No formal amendment or change was recorded on the floor; members adopted the committee reports as presented.

The transcript does not specify the bill number tied to Iwamoto’s remarks on the House floor; her concerns were voiced during consideration of the standing committee reports. The record indicates the committee discussion referenced the Coast Guard as a potential overseer, but the House did not take further local action on the oversight questions during this session.