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Committee releases bill setting pilotage rates for Delaware Bay and River pilots
Summary
Senate Bill 68, setting pilotage rates for the Pilots Association operating on the Bay and Delaware River for 2026–2028, was presented and released by the House Administration Committee; the Pilots Association described the compulsory nature of pilotage and cited federal authority for state regulation.
Representative Harris presented Senate Bill 68, which establishes pilotage rates for the Pilots Association of the Bay and River Delaware River for calendar years 2026, 2027 and 2028. Harris told the committee the rates increase on a three‑year cycle and that the bill has no fiscal impact on the state.
Jerry Medford, identified as representing pilots' safety, testified in person about the role of compulsory pilot service and the safety mission of the association. "What these rates do, I think you all know, is is for a compulsory pilot service, and and our main charge is to protect the shorelines of the state and the citizens of the state," Medford said. He explained that the federal Lighthouse Act of 1789 delegated authority to states to regulate pilots and that compulsory pilotage helps ensure safe navigation of vessels arriving in state waters.
No virtual public comment was recorded for the bill. The committee voted to release Senate Bill 68 to the House floor. Roll call recorded affirmative votes from committee members present and the motion carried.
Why it matters: The bill sets regulated pilotage fees for a three‑year period for a compulsory service that state law and federal practice authorize to ensure maritime safety and to prevent excessive charges by private operators.
Votes at a glance: SB 68 — motion to release to the floor; outcome: carried by roll call (unanimous among members present). Fiscal impact: sponsor stated none.
