Reasons Why Rules on this Subject may be Needed and What They Might Accomplish: Due to limited training opportunities in the Puget Sound pilotage district, the board of pilotage commissioners (board) is considering limitations for first year pilots in the Duwamish Waterway. The restriction would prohibit first year pilots from piloting on vessels greater than 3,000 GT in the Duwamish Waterway. The restriction would then be lifted through the license upgrade program developed by the board's trainee evaluation committee (TEC) for second year pilots.

Other Federal and State Agencies that Regulate this Subject and the Process Coordinating the Rule with These Agencies: None.

Process for Developing New Rule: Discussion regarding this proposed revision will occur at regular TEC and board meetings. Upon committee review and consensus, and consultation with the board's assistant attorney general, a recommendation will be presented to the board. Tribe and stakeholder comments are welcome throughout the process. Upon review and consideration of recommended revisions, a public hearing will be scheduled pursuant to formal notice requirements.

Interested parties can participate in the decision to adopt the new rule and formulation of the proposed rule before publication by contacting Jaimie C. Bever, Executive Director, 2901 3rd Avenue, Suite 500, Seattle, WA 98121, phone 206-515-3887, fax 206-515-3906, email BeverJ@wsdot.wa.gov, website www.pilotage.wa.gov.