FINAL BILL REPORT
SB 5861
C 194 L 87
BYSenators Tanner, Johnson, Moore, Hansen and Conner
Providing an exemption for specified vessels from application of chapter 88.16 RCW.
Senate Committee on Transportation
House Committe on Transportation
SYNOPSIS AS ENACTED
BACKGROUND:
The state Pilotage Act requires all registered vessels (foreign flag) to employ a state licensed pilot while in Washington waters. Those pilots must be paid state pilotage rates. State licensed pilots are highly qualified and capable of providing pilotage services for Puget Sound or Grays Harbor on board any size or type of vessel.
When the owners of a high speed passenger vessel began service in July, 1986 between Seattle and Victoria, British Columbia, they were required to employ a pilot. Many argue that a state licensed pilot is not necessary on those types of vessels.
SUMMARY:
The State Board of Pilotage Commissioners is authorized to grant an exemption from the provisions of the state Pilotage Act to any vessel the Board finds is a small passenger vessel or yacht. That vessel may not be more than 500 gross tons, may not exceed 200 feet in length, and must be operated exclusively in the waters of the Puget Sound Pilotage District and lower British Columbia.
To be considered for such an exemption, an interested party petitions the Board in writing. Such petition sets out a description of the vessel, its contemplated use, the area of operation and the vessel's owner. To grant such an exemption, the Board must find that the exemption is not detrimental to the public interest in regard to safe operation.
The Board is to review exemptions granted to ensure that vessels remain in compliance with the original exemption at least annually. The Board is to revoke such exemption where there is not continued compliance and maintain a file detailing exemptions granted by the Board and to report to the Legislature annually.
VOTES ON FINAL PASSAGE:
Senate 33 0
House 98 0
EFFECTIVE:April 25, 1987