For four decades, outside experts have been called to analyze the Steamship Authority (SSA). Four reports have been issued, spanning seven general managers and countless SSA board appointees: a 1985 Massachusetts Inspector General report, a 1994 report by McKinsey & Company, a 2018 report led by maritime specialist HMS Consulting and, in 2025, another inspector general report. The 1985 report said, “Adequate management, supervision and oversight were totally missing.