HB369 Summary

• Establishes a State Pilotage Commission in each Class 2 municipality consisting of three voting members: one from local maritime business, one active bar pilot, and one from local business/professional community.

• Sets licensing requirements for bar pilots including four-year college degree or maritime academy degree, specific U.S. Coast Guard licenses, and three years' relevant maritime experience.

• Establishes pilotage fees at $38 per draft foot (minimum 15 feet) plus $0.0625 per ton (minimum 6,500 tons), with annual cost-of-living adjustments based on the Consumer Price Index.

• Limits liability for bar pilots and apprentices to $5,000 for errors or omissions unless willful, intentional, or reckless misconduct occurred; applies only when bar pilots remain self-employed independent contractors not exceeding 20 actively engaged pilots.

• Requires bar pilots to retire at age 68 and establishes disciplinary procedures including suspension or revocation of license for violations of law or commission rules.