Jones Act Exacerbates US Ferry System Struggles

Washington State Ferries (WSF) has certainly seen better days. With over 3,500 canceled sailings last year and just 15 of its 21 vessels reliably operating, a recent Seattle Times editorial described the ferry system as “in crisis” and characterized its fleet as “antiquated” and “depleted.” Such language is apt. With 11 of the system’s ferries at least 40 years old and WSF five short of the 26 vessels it considers ideal, new vessels are badly needed. Unfortunately, none are projected to arrive until 2028 at the earliest. The extended delivery...