A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced the FERRIES Act (Federal Enhancement and Revitalization of Reliable Infrastructure for Essential Seaways Act), legislation aimed at increasing federal investment in ferry systems nationwide and providing more predictable long-term funding for ferry operators that connect communities across the country. The bill was introduced by Reps. Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY), Emily Randall (D-WA), Nick Begich (R-AK), and John Garamendi (D-CA), leaders of the Congressional Ferry Caucus.
The legislation proposes substantial increases to several existing federal ferry programs administered by the Federal Transit Administration and the Federal Highway Administration, while also establishing a new Ferry Fleet Modernization and Shipyard Job Creation Grant Program to support vessel replacement, electrification, and alternative fuel projects. These investments are intended to help operators modernize fleets, strengthen domestic shipyard activity, and improve the reliability of ferry services that play an important role in many regional transportation systems.
The FERRIES Act was introduced as Congress begins developing the next Surface Transportation Authorization, which must be enacted before current programs under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law expire on Sept. 30, 2026. As that process moves forward, PVA welcomes continued congressional attention to the role ferries play in the nation’s transportation network and maritime economy and will monitor the legislation as it develops.