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ME LD1731

An Act to Increase the Influence of the Maine State Ferry Advisory Board on the Funding and Operations of the Maine State Ferry Service


summary

Introduced
04/22/2025
In Committee
04/22/2025
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead

Introduced Session

132nd Legislature

Bill Summary

This bill requires the Maine State Ferry Service to consult with the Maine State Ferry Advisory Board on matters regarding budgets, strategic planning and major operational decisions. Recommendations made by the board regarding certain matters must be considered by the Maine State Ferry Service during its decision-making processes for the following fiscal year. The bill requires the Maine State Ferry Service to provide regular reports to the board and requires the board to review and provide feedback and recommendations. The bill also requires the board to conduct an annual review of the Maine State Ferry Service's performance and operations and provide a report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over transportation matters by January 15th of each year.

AI Summary

This bill strengthens the role of the Maine State Ferry Advisory Board in overseeing the Maine State Ferry Service by establishing new consultation and reporting requirements. Specifically, the bill mandates that the Ferry Service must consult the board on budget development, strategic planning, and major operational decisions, and must seriously consider the board's recommendations on matters such as rider experience, fares, schedules, route planning, and vessel maintenance. The Ferry Service is now required to provide an annual report to the board detailing financial performance, rider feedback, and operational challenges, and the board must review this report and provide feedback. Additionally, the board is now obligated to conduct an annual comprehensive review of the Ferry Service's performance and operations, and submit a report to the legislative transportation committee by January 15th each year, including specific recommendations for improvements and funding. These recommendations must then be considered by the Ferry Service in its decision-making process for the following fiscal year, thereby giving the advisory board more meaningful input into the service's operations and strategic direction.

Committee Categories

Transportation and Infrastructure

Sponsors (9)

Last Action

Voted: Divided Report (on 05/15/2025)

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