S.B. No. 1353 establishes a regulatory framework for pilots operating within the jurisdiction of the pilot board in Cameron County, Texas. The bill introduces a new section, Sec. 62.002, clarifying that the provisions of Chapter 62 do not apply to navigation districts, pilot boards, pilots, or vessels as described in Section 71.002. It creates Chapter 71, titled the "Cameron County Pilots Licensing and Regulatory Act," which outlines definitions, applicability, and the structure of the pilot board, including the qualifications for branch pilots and deputy branch pilots. The pilot board will consist of navigation and canal commissioners and will have exclusive jurisdiction over pilotage between the Gulf of Mexico and the ports within the district.

Additionally, the bill specifies the liability of consignees and pilots regarding pilot services, stating that consignees are liable for pilotage fees and that vessels not utilizing available pilot services will incur double the applicable pilotage rate. Unauthorized individuals providing pilot services will also be liable for payments at twice the current pilotage rate. The bill limits pilots' liability for damages to a maximum of $1,000, with exceptions for willful misconduct or gross negligence, and clarifies that this limitation does not exempt vessels or their owners from liability for damages. The provisions will take effect on September 1, 2025, applying only to acts or omissions occurring on or after that date.

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