WA HB1923

Expands authority to establish passenger-only ferry service districts to counties, port districts, city transit systems, county transportation authorities, metropolitan municipal corporations, unincorporated transportation benefit areas, and regional transit authorities bordering Puget Sound or Grays Harbor

Removes previous restriction limiting passenger-only ferry service districts to public transportation benefit areas in counties with 200,000+ population on the western side of Puget Sound with Washington State Ferries terminals

Requires ferry service districts to develop investment plans detailing terminal locations, projected costs, and revenue sources before providing service, with authority to use public-private partnerships and alternative procurement methods

Encourages adoption of southern resident orca protections including whale reporting systems, automated ship identification, and advanced propulsion systems to minimize environmental impacts

Takes effect July 1, 2025 and is designated as the "mosquito fleet act" to address Washington State Ferries service disruptions and increase ferry capacity ahead of the FIFA World Cup