Interstate Ferry Fairness Act

Key Points

• This bill would allow private companies that run ferries between two states to apply for federal money. Currently, most federal ferry funding is reserved for boats and docks owned by the government.
• The money could be used to build new ferry boats or fix up the terminals where people wait. This is meant to help keep transportation moving smoothly for people who commute between neighboring states by water.
• To qualify for the money, a private ferry must provide a major benefit to the public. The government will review each case to make sure the ferry is meeting the most important needs of the local travel system.
• Private ferry owners would be allowed to charge fares to cover their basic costs, like repairs and debt. They would also be allowed to keep a small amount of profit that the government determines is a reasonable rate.
• If passed, these changes would start one year later. This would give private ferry lines a new way to pay for expensive upgrades that they currently have to fund entirely on their own.

Impact Analysis

Govbase has not yet run an impact analysis on this legislation.