TX SB1353

Creates new Chapter 71 in the Transportation Code establishing a separate regulatory framework for maritime pilots in Cameron County navigation districts, exempting them from the general pilot regulations in Chapter 62

Establishes pilot boards composed of navigation and canal commissioners with exclusive jurisdiction over pilotage of vessels between the Gulf of Mexico and Cameron County ports, with authority to appoint, suspend, or dismiss pilots and set pilotage rates

Requires branch pilot applicants to be at least 25 years old, U.S. citizens, Texas residents for at least one year, federally licensed, and have at least 30 months of deputy branch pilot service or equivalent experience

Limits pilot liability to $1,000 for damages caused by error, omission, fault, or neglect during pilot services, except in cases of willful misconduct or gross negligence where no other party shares liability

Imposes double pilotage rates on vessels that decline available pilot services or on unauthorized persons who provide pilot services in Cameron County waters, with the effective date of September 1, 2025