The bill amends RCW 47.64.340 to clarify the responsibilities and authority of the captain of a Washington state ferry vessel. It establishes that the captain is the ultimate authority on the vessel and its personnel while in command, with specific duties including ensuring safe navigation, compliance with international, federal, and state laws, directing crew performance, overseeing vessel operations, and coordinating arrivals and departures. The language has been updated to replace terms such as "manager" with "ultimate authority" and "supervising" with "directing," emphasizing the captain's leadership role.

Additionally, the bill introduces provisions regarding the bargaining unit for ferry captains. By August 31, 2024, if a majority of captains in the masters and pilots bargaining unit vote in favor, they may be included in a combined masters, mates, and pilots bargaining unit effective July 1, 2025. The bill also specifies that starting with the 2025-2027 biennium negotiations, agreements must align with the new provisions, replacing previous references to a captains-only bargaining unit and updating the timeline for negotiations.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 47.64.340