A state commission began a multiday hearing Monday to determine whether the distressed company transporting most goods between the main Hawaiian islands deserves a big rate hike plus automated inflationary annual increases.

The quasi-judicial proceeding by the three-member Public Utilities Commission is expected to determine whether Young Brothers LLC receives a 26% rate increase, or something less, for its regulated interisland tug-and-barge operations.

Consumers, business owners and other members of the public may submit comments for consideration by the PUC, which is expected to render a decision by the end of the year.

On the first day of the evidentiary hearing anticipated to run through Friday, attorneys representing Young Brothers and the state Division of Consumer Advocacy prese

See Full Page