What’s Really Behind WA State Ferry System Interruptions?

Monday's ferry snafus that wreaked havoc on the Puget Sound area was a long time in the making, say experts.

     "This Shouldn't Have Come as A Surprise..."

  That was a quote from the Washington Policy Center's Transportation Director in the wake of the ferry debacle. The Police Center is a non-partisan think tank and activist group that actively engages in WA state politics, business, environment and more.

Charles Prestrud says the foundation for the shortage of engineers and other ferry workers was laid due to COVID.  At that time, the state was already facing issues from retirements and other departures, but WSDOT was working on fixing it.

  But Then Inslee Fired (Almost) Everybody

132 WSDOT ferry workers were let go, either for refusing to take the controversial COVID vaccine, or were forced into or chose early retirement. That left the ferry system even further behind the 8-ball. 2 years ago Prestrud warned these issues were coming.

And now, the union that represents ferry engineers (captains or drivers) and other  ferry employees, MEBA (Maritime Engineers Beneficial Association) is pushing for pay increases and better conditions.  23 Engineers called in sick on Monday, but their replacements also refused to come into work.

 Strikes Are Not Allowed Under their Bargaining Agreement

None of the union officials called it a  strike, but experts say a mass sick out would also be considered a "strike" or a walk-out, which is illegal.  Their contract has expired and negotiations with the state continue.

Prestrud also says the state's desire to utilize hybrid electric-diesel ferries contributes to higher costs, and less reliability--which can ripple effect on other areas, including trying to hire and train engineers.  Critics say ferry engineering is one field where there are not lines of people waiting to be hired.  It requires training.

 Governor Expects Ferries to be Running Tuesday.

Gov. Ferguson issued a statement saying his "expectation" is that all ferries will be operating normally on Tuesday.

MEBA represents roughly 400 workers in WA State.