Speaker Stutes: ‘The fact this bill passed both bodies unanimously shows the incredible work we’ve all done to emphasize how important our ferries are to Alaskans’

JUNEAU – A bill establishing a nine-member Alaska Marine Highway Operations Board passed the Alaska State Senate Tuesday, 20-0.

House Bill 63 is designed to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders who rely on the ferry to keep the system working for Coastal Alaska.

“Restoring reliable and consistent ferry service has been my top priority since I was sent to Juneau, and my seventh year here has proven to be the lucky charm,” said House Speaker Louise Stutes (R-Kodiak), who sponsored the bill. “The fact this bill passed both bodies unanimously shows the incredible work we’ve all done to emphasize how important our ferries are to Alaskans. I am absolutely delighted with today’s outcome.”

“The marine highway touches virtually every aspect of life in my district,” Rep. Dan Ortiz (I-Ketchikan) said. “Having long-time marine highway expertise helps guide decision-making for the ferries and can only benefit the system and the many Alaskans who rely on it.”

Rep. Andi Story (D-Juneau) added, “The Alaska Legislature has made tremendous progress this year toward correcting the Alaska Marine Highway System’s course. In addition to the important board created by HB 63, we have secured a deal to forward fund the ferries and create the infrastructure that will help determine long-term strategies for success.”

HB 63 previously passed the House, where the bill will return for final approval before being sent to the governor’s desk.

  Alaska, ferry, highway, legislature, marine, proposal