35 MAY 2026 and marine safety operations, federal ferry funding programs, workforce and mariner credentialing challenges, and continued support for the Small Shipyard Grant Program. While fly-in participants raised concerns and shared experiences specific to their own states, districts, and operations, all partici- pants were equipped with information highlighting core industry priorities and the important role of the passenger vessel industry in the nation’s transpor- tation and tourism economy. Members emphasized the importance of ensuring that the U.S. Coast Guard remains focused on its core maritime safety and security missions and im- proving service delivery for the domes- tic maritime industry. Participants also urged Congress to increase funding for the Small Shipyard Grant Program to its fully authorized level of $105 million and expressed support for additional investment in Federal Transit Admin- istration and Federal Highway Admin- istration ferry funding programs. Throughout the meetings, PVA mem- bers highlighted the economic impact of passenger vessel operations in their home communities and emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong and reliable domestic maritime transportation system. The fly-in concluded our Hill meet- ings with a gathering of the full group in the House Transportation and Infrastructure hearing room in the Rayburn House Office Building. There, the group met with Rep. Mike Ezell, Chairman of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transporta- tion Subcommittee. Chairman Ezell spoke with the full contingent of PVA members and responded to as many questions as our group could muster. He and his staff carefully listened to our suggestions, concerns, and frus- trations regarding challenges facing the maritime industry, particularly issues involving Coast Guard service delivery, regulatory implementation, and workforce concerns. The meetings throughout the day rein- forced the value of direct engagement between PVA members and policy- makers. Congressional offices respond- ed positively to hearing operational experiences directly from vessel oper- ators and maritime businesses serving communities across the country. PVA appreciates the time and effort contributed by all members who traveled to Washington to participate. These conversations help strengthen relationships with policymakers and ensure that the passenger vessel in- dustry remains actively engaged in the federal legislative process. Participants concluded the day with water taxi transportation courtesy of City Cruises from Washington, D.C.’s Southwest Waterfront back to Old Town Alexandria, where members gathered for dinner and an opportuni- ty to recap the day’s events and contin- ue conversations with colleagues from across the industry. Rep. Mike Ezell, Chairman of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee spoke with PVA members and staff during the PVA Congressional Fly-In.
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