SENATE BILL REPORT

SB 6171

This analysis was prepared by non-partisan legislative staff for the use of legislative members in their deliberations. This analysis is not a part of the legislation nor does it constitute a statement of legislative intent.

As Passed Senate, February 14, 2012

Title: An act relating to the weight limitation for certain vessels exempt from the pilotage act.

Brief Description: Modifying the weight limitation for certain vessels exempt from the pilotage act.

Sponsors: Senators Haugen, King and Shin.

Committee Activity: Transportation: 1/17/12, 1/23/12 [DP, w/oRec].

Passed Senate: 2/14/12, 48-1.

SENATE COMMITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION

Majority Report: Do pass.

Signed by Senators Haugen, Chair; Eide, Vice Chair; King, Ranking Minority Member; Fain, Assistant Ranking Minority Member; Delvin, Ericksen, Frockt, Hill, Hobbs, Litzow, Prentice, Ranker, Sheldon, Shin and Swecker.

Minority Report: That it be referred without recommendation.

Signed by Senator Rolfes.

Staff: Kelly Simpson (786-7403)

Background: Under current law, the Board of Pilotage Commissioners (Board) must provide for the maintenance of efficient and competent pilotage service on the waters of the Puget Sound pilotage district and the Grays Harbor pilotage district. To this end, the Board examines the proficiency of potential pilots, licenses pilots, enforces the use of pilots, sets pilotage rates, investigates reported accidents involving pilots, keeps records of various matters affecting pilotage, and performs various other duties as required by law.

All non-exempt vessels navigating the Puget Sound and Grays Harbor pilotage districts must employ a licensed marine pilot. The Board may grant exemptions from the compulsory marine pilotage requirements to certain vessels, including yachts not heavier than 500 gross tons and not longer than 200 feet in overall length. The exemptions must not be detrimental to the public interest in regard to safe operation preventing loss of human lives, loss of property, and protecting the marine environment of the state.

Summary of Bill: The Board may grant an exemption from the compulsory marine pilotage requirements to any yacht not heavier than 750 gross tons and not longer than 200 feet in overall length.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Not requested.

Committee/Commission/Task Force Created: No.

Effective Date: Ninety days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.

Staff Summary of Public Testimony: PRO: This bill provides some uniformity with other states. Lots of foreign-flagged vessels are coming into Puget Sound and this bill would help attract more vessels. The bill encourages more vessels to come and enjoy Puget Sound marine facilities.

Persons Testifying: PRO: James Curry, David Sloate, NW Marine Trade Assn.; Lee Reaves, Puget Sound Pilots.