MS SB2781

Limits liability of licensed pilots and pilot trainees to $5,000 for damages caused by error, omission, fault, or neglect in performing pilot services, except for willful misconduct or reckless disregard for safety.

Excludes from liability limitations damages arising from pilot boat ownership and operation unless the pilot boat is directly involved in pilot services other than transporting licensed pilots.

Does not exempt vessels, owners, or operators from liability for damage or loss caused by their vessels, regardless of whether a licensed pilot was involved.

Prevents pilots from being held liable for claims arising from acts or omissions of other pilots or pilot organizations related to pilot services, and protects pilot organizations from liability for errors of individual pilots.

Effective for all causes of action occurring on or after July 1, 2013, and does not apply to vessel operators not required to use licensed pilots, those operating under federal licenses only, or American vessels with coast-wise cargo not destined for foreign ports.