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 while the vessel is under their 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 units for ferry captains. By August 31, 2025, if a majority of captains in the current bargaining unit express a desire to join a combined masters, mates, and pilots bargaining unit, the public employees relations commission will certify this new unit effective July 1, 2026. The bill also outlines that starting with the 2027-2029 biennium negotiations, collective bargaining agreements must align with the new structure, ensuring that captains are appropriately represented within the bargaining framework.

Statutes affected:
Original Bill: 47.64.340
Bill as Passed Legislature: 47.64.340
Session Law: 47.64.340