Q. What is Local Act 1 and if passed, what would it do?

A. The Michigan legislature passed and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed into law Senate Bill 304, which would amend Mackinac Island's 1899 city charter to give the city legal authority to regulate all aspects of ferry service — including ticket prices, mainland parking fees charged by operators, baggage charges, early boarding fees, and other add-on costs.

 

Before the charter change takes effect, Mackinac Island voters must approve it at the ballot box. Even after the Governor signed the bill, it only becomes law for Mackinac Island if voters approve the charter amendment. This is your direct say in how ferry access to the island is managed going forward.

 

Q. Why did the governor find it necessary to sign this legislation, leading to this charter amendment proposal?

A. Ownership of ferries providing service to Mackinac Island is under the control of one owner. As a result, the City of Mackinac Island attempted to regulate rates. The ferry companies sued and the island counter-sued. leading to the Local Act 1 ballot question. If passed by voters, Local Act 1 would give the city a clearer legal basis to regulate the full range of ferry-related fees under some circumstances.

 

Q. How much have ferry costs gone up?

A. According to the Michigan Senate Fiscal Agency, the minimum cost of passage rose from roughly $34 to $51 after the ferry companies introduced higher ancillary fees — an increase of about 50%. The Hoffmann Family of Companies says a family of four can still travel round-trip for $77 on Arnold Transit's slower "Classic" service, though the faster ferries used by most passengers cost more.

 

Q. What happens if voters approve Local Act 1?

A. The charter amendment takes effect, giving the City of Mackinac Island formal legal authority to regulate all aspects of ferry service, including mainland parking and ancillary fees. The city would then use that authority in ongoing franchise negotiations with the owner of ferry services and in any future regulatory proceedings. The city would have authority over: ticket prices, mainland parking fees charged by ferry operators, baggage fees, early boarding fees, and any other charges tied to ferry service. 

 

The goal is to keep overall passage costs fair and accessible for residents, workers, and visitors who depend on the ferries as the island's only link to the mainland.

 

Q. What happens if voters reject Local Act 1?

A. Then the charter change does not take effect and the city's regulatory authority remains legally uncertain — largely as it is today. The ongoing federal lawsuit and franchise negotiations would continue without the added legal backing this bill would provide. The Legislature could potentially revisit the issue, but there is no guarantee of a second attempt.

 

Q. Is there a risk the ferries could stop running?

A. The ferry companies warned this spring that they could discontinue regular season service in 2027 if new franchise agreements are not reached with the island council. Supporters of this proposed charter amendment argue that giving the city clear regulatory authority actually strengthens its position in those negotiations. 

 

Q. Does this bill let Mackinac Island control parking in Mackinaw City or St. Ignace?

A. The bill includes language stating it does not diminish authority held by other municipalities. Sponsor Sen. Damoose argues no court would allow one city to govern another city's zoning or parking.