HB506 Summary

• Limits bar pilot liability to $5,000 for damage or loss caused by the pilot's error, omission, fault, or neglect in providing pilot services to vessels.

• Removes the $5,000 cap if damage or loss results from the pilot's willful, intentional, or reckless misconduct, allowing full liability and exemplary or punitive damages.

• Preserves the vessel's liability and the liability of its crew, owner, charterer, or operator regardless of whether the vessel was piloted or damage was caused by pilot error.

• Requires courts to dismiss claims against pilots that allege liability exceeding $5,000 when other claims arise from the same act or omission.

• Becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.