A union for state ferry workers is fighting for a free lifetime pass for retired state ferries chief Mike Anderson, even though he didn't ask for one.

The union - Ferry Agents, Supervisors and Project Administrators Association - contends Anderson is entitled to the perk under terms of its contract.

When the request was rejected, the union filed a grievance but withdrew it because Anderson was not part of the bargaining unit.

Union president Vern Rosbach says the matter is not over.

Free fares is one of the benefits negotiated into contracts for eight unions representing 1,580 state ferry employees. Since 2004, the system also has issued passes to 219 retirees and 142 spouses.

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Information from: The Herald, http://www.heraldnet.com