PRESS RELEASE:
Representatives Randall, Begich, Garamendi, Malliotakis Launch Bipartisan Congressional Ferry Caucus to Improve Ferry Transportation
June 16, 2025
The Public Ferry Coalition applauds the launch of the bipartisan Congressional Ferry Caucus and welcomes this important step in raising awareness of the vital role ferries play in our transportation system.
BREMERTON, WA – Today, Representative Emily Randall (WA-06) announced the launch of the Congressional Ferry Caucus for the 119th Congress, alongside co-chairs Representatives Nick Begich (AK-At large), John Garamendi (CA-03), and Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11).
This bipartisan caucus was created to advocate for the unique needs of communities where ferry transportation is essential. The Congressional Ferry Caucus aims to promote the benefits of and advocate for the long-term federal investment in public ferry systems, including marine, shoreside, and workforce needs. The Caucus will educate Members on the vital role ferries play in America’s transportation network, connecting both urban and rural communities to jobs, schools, health care, and recreation. The Ferry Caucus will serve as a platform to address the need for increased federal funding and improvements to these essential waterway transportation systems, from the Pacific Northwest to Alaska, the San Francisco Bay, and New York.
“Washington State’s ferry system isn’t just transportation infrastructure—our ferries are a lifeline for communities,” said Rep. Randall. “From daily work commutes and medical appointments to connecting with loved ones, my constituents rely on these boats every day. Without reliable service, we face hours long drives just to reach Seattle—making daily life unnecessarily difficult for those living on the Peninsula. Ferries also bring visitors from around the world to experience the natural beauty and unique local businesses of our region, and without them, our local economies would struggle. I know my neighbors are excited about the recent return to full service on the Bremerton-Seattle run with the addition of a second boat. And I’m proud to be launching the bipartisan Congressional Ferry Caucus to advocate for the federal funds and support our marine highways deserve, to ensure we meet the unique needs of our coastal and rural communities and to build a more connected, resilient future.”
“I’m pleased to join Congresswoman Emily Randall as a Co-Chair of the Congressional Ferry Caucus. Alaska’s Marine Highway is a crucial lifeline in Alaska that connects our coastal communities and ensures access to essential services across our state while also supporting local economies. Whether you live in Ketchikan, Kodiak, or any of the dozens of coastal towns that rely on these routes, Alaskans deserve a strong and well-maintained Marine Highway System,” said Rep. Nick Begich. “This caucus provides an important platform to build bipartisan support and secure the resources necessary to keep our ferries running - and I look forward to serving as a Co-Chair to advocate for Alaskans.”
"With rising sea levels and increasing congestion on our bridges, people are increasingly turning to ferry service as a reliable means of transportation. In my district, the San Francisco Bay Ferry is leading the way in groundbreaking projects to electrify their ferry boats and develop America’s first high-speed, high-capacity zero-emission vessels," said Rep. John Garamendi. "I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Congressional Ferry Caucus to ensure this vital innovation can continue, and that these vessels are built in America by skilled American workers."
“I join my colleagues in launching the Congressional Ferry Caucus. For decades, ferries have connected communities and states, providing convenient transportation and access for everyday commuters and visitors,” said Rep. Malliotakis. “As the representative of an island surrounded by water, I’m committed to supporting the Staten Island Ferry, fast ferries and other maritime transportation as critical links for my constituents.”
"The Public Ferry Coalition applauds the launch of the bipartisan Congressional Ferry Caucus and welcomes this important step in raising awareness of the vital role ferries play in our transportation system. Ferries are more than just a mode of transit—they are essential to connecting communities, reducing congestion, and strengthening regional resilience. We look forward to working with the Caucus to advance shared priorities and ensure that America’s public ferry systems remain strong, sustainable, and equipped to meet the demands of the future.”