New law to honor Maine State Ferry Service retirees takes effect

AUGUSTA — Today, a new law introduced by Sen. Pinny Beebe-Center, D-Rockland, went into effect after being passed by the Legislature earlier this year. LD 280, “An Act to Establish Lifetime Ferry Passes for Retired Maine State Ferry Service Employees,” provides a lifetime vehicle ferry pass to certain Maine State Ferry Service Retirees.

“Maine State Ferry Service employees have given years of their lives to ensure that thousands of people every year can travel across the water, and I am thrilled that this key benefit will be restored to them,” said Sen. Beebe-Center. “I am so grateful for the work our ferry service retirees have done for my constituents, and I hope this benefit will help ease the travel burden to the grocery store, doctors’ appointments and more.”

As passed by the Legislature, LD 280 allows eligible Maine State Ferry Service retirees to take two complimentary round trips per month with a vehicle, provided they give at least 24-hour notice for a reservation, and provided they are island residents.

As non-emergency legislation, LD 280 took effect on September 24, 2025, 90 days after the First Special Session of the 132nd Legislature adjourned. LD 280 was signed by the Governor on June 10.