Two quick, simple, and critical opportunities this week: one to support competitive WSF crew wages, and another to expand water taxi service for our communities!

Testify to support HB 1264 and HB 1923 in house transportation committee hearings this week. You can also easily sign in "pro" to support the bills through links bellow. Talking points follow the summaries. The broadest array of voices possible are necessary to move these critical bills forward! 

• You can testify as an individual or on behalf of an agency / organization
• You can testify in person or remotely
• Plan to keep your remarks to 1-2 minutes. Share your personal “why” for supporting the bill, if applicable.
• Registration closes one hour before hearings

TODAY, MONDAY, 2/17 at 4pm: HB1264

Concerning the salaries of ferry system collective bargaining units. Requires the Office of Financial Management to compare Washington State Ferry work groups with specifically enumerated groups of employees when completing a salary survey for use in collective bargaining negotiations. This bill is critical to supporting the Fix Our Ferries shared agenda: competitive and equitable wages for crew. Unions in support of this bill include MMP, MEBA, and IBEW, Puget Sound Maritime Trades Council, AFL-CIO, IBU, SEIU775, WA Association Of UA Plumbers & Pipefitters, CWA. Talking points follow.

Complete bill info: https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=1264&Year=2025&Initiative=false 

Sign in to testify or support: https://app.leg.wa.gov/csi/House?selectedCommittee=31651&selectedMeeting=32842

WEDNESDAY, 2/19 at 4pm: HB 1923

Increasing the availability of passenger-only ferries by establishing the mosquito fleet act. An act relating to increasing the availability of passenger-only ferries by establishing the mosquito fleet act; establishes a state-wide block grant program for eligible communities to establish and/or support passenger ferry service. Talking points follow.

Complete bill info: https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary/?BillNumber=1923&Year=2025&Initiative=false

Sign in to testify or support: https://app.leg.wa.gov/csi/House?selectedCommittee=31651&selectedMeeting=32843

HB 1264 Talking Points:

• Washington State Ferry service has become increasingly unreliable. Even if we had enough boats for full service, we don't have enough crew to operate and maintain those ferries.
• To improve both recruitment and retention, it is vital that WSF crew members receive competitive wages.
• Staffing is already so thin that even one crew member calling out cannot be absorbed, and vital runs are cancelled. Crews are stretched beyond capacity on overtime. 
• WSF cannot compete with other domestic marine markets, public or private. By offering competitive compensation, we can attract and retain skilled workers, ensuring that the ferries remain operational and reliable.
• HB 1264 is a needed first step, updating the salary survey the state uses to set competitive wages and bolster our maritime workforce.
• Our ferry system is iconic, a lifeline to island and coastal communities and an important contributor to our state and local economy. 
• Please support HB 1264 as we work together to restore a stable, sustainable future for Washington State Ferries and the communities that depend on them.

HB 1923 Talking Points:

• Passenger-only ferries offer a cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and flexible alternative to both car ferries and overland transportation expansion. 
• Passenger-only ferries need minimal infrastructure investment, and can operate out of most existing recreational marinas, reducing the need for costly new terminals or extensive construction. Smaller, lighter passenger vessels are easier to electrify than traditional car ferries.
• Providing Operational Support: Recognizing that startup capital alone is insufficient, the program offers operational funding to ensure the long-term viability of passenger-only ferry services.
• Improved Access for Underserved Areas: passenger-only ferries connect smaller communities to essential services—healthcare, education, shopping, and airports.
• Cleaner Transportation Network: by embracing passenger-only vessels, Washington can move more swiftly toward its zero-emission goals.
• Investing in passenger-only ferries through the HB 1923 is an investment in Washington’s future—reducing congestion, cutting emissions, and expanding opportunity for residents and businesses across the state.