An Act To Establish A Permanent Ferry Oversight Committee To Ensure Sustainable And Equitable Ferry Operations

This bill establishes a permanent 10-member Ferry Oversight Committee to provide ongoing review of Maine's ferry operations. It directly affects unbridged island communities that rely on ferry service for transportation, education, and emergency access. The committee, with balanced representation including island residents, transportation experts, and legislative members, must review ferry operation proposals and submit annual reports on impacts to education access, emergency response, and local economies. The committee meets quarterly and reports to the Legislature's transportation committee, ensuring transparency in decisions affecting island communities.