Press Release – Public Utilities Commission Approves Limited Temporary Rate Increase for Young Brothers
Posted on Jun 27, 2025 in News ReleaseHONOLULU – The Public Utilities Commission (“commission”) today issued an order approving a limited temporary rate increase for Young Brothers, LLC, (“YB”), in response to YB’s claims that its financial distress would threaten its ability to provide interisland shipping services. The objectives for the temporary rate increase are to minimize the impact on customers of any rate increase and any adverse effect on service.
The commission authorized an 18.1% temporary rate increase, less than the 25% increase requested by YB. The increase is based on an assessment of the minimum amount necessary to help allow YB to continue providing essential interisland shipping services, while the commission completes its review of YB’s pending general rate case. This increase is temporary, effective July 1. It is set to expire December 31, 2025 or when YB’s pending general rate increase request is resolved, whichever date comes first.
The commission also approved a temporary additive increase of the Island Agricultural Product Discount by 2% for both Less-than-Container Load and Container shipments to support local agriculture.
The commission is requiring YB to conduct community meetings including hybrid options on each affected island, to explain the temporary increase, listen to customer feedback, and answer questions. YB is required to provide public notice when these meetings are scheduled.
The commission prioritizes protecting Hawai‘i’s businesses and will investigate YB’s business plan and operations to assess its financial health and its plan to return to financial stability that will not rely on continued rate increases.
While the investigation into YB’s general rate increase request is ongoing, the commission encourages residents and businesses to submit public comments, as well as to participate in the upcoming YB community meetings. To submit a public comment, visit the commission’s public comment page and reference Docket No. 2024-0255 in your submission.
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