S.B. No. 1353 is a legislative act aimed at establishing the licensing and regulation of pilots within the jurisdiction of the pilot board of a navigation district in Cameron County, Texas. The bill introduces a new section, Section 62.002, which clarifies 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," detailing 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, who will have exclusive jurisdiction over pilotage between the Gulf of Mexico and the ports within the district.

Additionally, the bill outlines new provisions regarding the liability of consignees and pilots in relation to pilot services for vessels. It establishes that consignees are liable for pilotage fees and imposes penalties on vessels that fail to utilize available pilot services. Unauthorized individuals providing pilot services will also face penalties, and pilots can recover compensation for their services, including legal costs if they prevail in court. The bill limits pilot liability for damages to a maximum of $1,000, with exceptions for willful misconduct or gross negligence, and clarifies that this limitation does not absolve vessels or their operators from liability. 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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