Relative to embarkation fees
The revenues generated from these embarkation fees shall be allocated to different entities: 62.5% to cities or towns providing ferry services, 25% to fire districts that assist in providing public safety services at ferry ports, and 12.5% to neighboring municipalities that do not provide ferry services but share access to a harbor. Furthermore, all funds collected under the embarkation fee scheme are to be deposited into a special fund, specifically set aside for operations aimed at mitigating the impacts of ferry transportation, which includes harbor services, public safety operations, and infrastructure improvements.
Senate Bill S2873 proposes the implementation of embarkation fees imposed on passenger ferry trips originating from specific ports within the counties of Barnstable, Nantucket, Dukes, and Bristol. The bill establishes a $2.00 charge per passenger for all ferry trips, excluding those vessels that carry fewer than 100 passengers. This fee is aimed at generating revenue to support local communities that provide ferry services and enhance public safety measures in and around their ports. The revenues from the fee are mandated to be submitted to the commissioner of revenue on a quarterly basis by the ferry operators.
Notably, the bill includes exemptions for passengers holding valid commuter, student, or school-related ferry fares, underscoring the intent to make ferry transportation accessible for frequent travelers and students. The enactment of S2873 may spark discussions regarding the efficient management and accountability of the collected revenues, as well as concerns among local communities about the potential economic burden on ferry users. As communities weigh the benefits of improved safety and infrastructure against the additional costs incurred by travelers, the bill brings forth important debates on local governance and state law.