New bill would bring $550M in federal money for Washington State Ferries – KOMO News

Representative Emily Randall of Washington’s 6th Congressional District introduced the bipartisan FERRIES Act in March 2026 to secure increased federal funding for ferry systems across the United States. The legislation aims to boost the Federal Transit Administration’s Passenger Ferry Grant Program by up to $550 million every year.

The proposed funding is intended to address critical infrastructure and operational failures within the maritime transport sector, specifically impacting the Puget Sound travel corridor. In recent years, Washington State Ferries has experienced frequent sailing cancellations attributed to broken, aging vessels and persistent crew shortages.

The operational instability of the ferry system has created economic and personal burdens for commuters and local business owners. Jodi Davis, a local business owner and ferry commuter, stated that Unreliable service means missed birthdays, tickets to sports and concerts, hours spent waiting at the terminal, or worse. For those of us who can afford it, the need to book a hotel room.

The FERRIES Act has gained support from key stakeholders in the maritime industry who view the federal grant increase as a necessary step toward stabilizing regional transit. Dan Twohig, Vice President of the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots, stated that the organization will do everything possible to push the bill across the finish line.

The business and social utility of the ferry system extends beyond general transit, serving as a primary link for essential services and regional commerce. Kitsap County Commissioner Katie Walters identified several critical needs for improved service between Seattle and Kitsap County, including:

• Commuting for employment
• Access to medical appointments
• Attendance at educational institutions
• Travel for sporting events, specifically for Mariners or Seahawks games

The proposed increase in the Federal Transit Administration’s Passenger Ferry Grant Program would allow Washington State Ferries to tap into expanded federal resources to modernize its fleet and address the staffing gaps that have led to service interruptions. By stabilizing the corridor, supporters of the act argue that residents living west of the Sound would see a direct improvement in the reliability of their primary transportation link.