An Act To Expand Ferry Service To Matinicus Isle

This bill increases the minimum annual ferry trips to Matinicus Isle from 12 to 36, requiring the Maine Department of Transportation to provide this baseline service. Additional trips beyond 36 may be authorized if agreed upon by Matinicus Isle residents and the Department. The Department must operate this service using either state-owned vessels or privately contracted vessels. This change directly impacts Matinicus Isle residents by improving their access to mainland transportation through more frequent ferry service.