FERRIES Act

The FERRIES Act would substantially boost federal investment in ferry transportation services across the United States. The bill would increase funding for the Federal Transit Administration's Passenger Ferry Grant Program to up to $550 million annually, with $300 million authorized over five years including $100 million from the Highway Trust Fund and $200 million in advanced appropriations each year. This legislation is designed to provide ferry operators with long-term, predictable funding to support reliable service. The bill was introduced by a bipartisan group of lawmakers in response to service disruptions affecting millions of ferry commuters, particularly in Washington state where mechanical issues have reduced ferry availability. If enacted, the bill would help ferry systems maintain and improve service quality for the approximately 20 million annual ferry riders in the United States, with particular focus on communities where ferry transportation is essential for commuting and regional connectivity.