Massachusetts § 31A - Pilotage rate board
Full text of Massachusetts Massachusetts General Laws § 31A — Pilotage rate board, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 31A. Pilotage rate board
Section 31A. (a) There shall be a pilotage rate board which shall determine the rates to be charged by pilots commissioned under this chapter to ensure the safe navigation of vessels within the waters of the commonwealth and to ensure that the most qualified individuals are retained as commissioned pilots.
(b) The board shall consist of the following members or their designees: the director of the Massachusetts Port Authority; the president of the Boston Marine Society; the president of the Boston Shipping Association; a commissioner of pilots designated by the trustees of the Boston Marine Society; the chair of the Seaport Advisory Council; the executive director of the Boston Harbor Association; and the executive director of the New Bedford Harbor Development Commission. The board shall elect a chairperson and a vice chairperson from its members.
(c) The board shall be subject to section 11A1/2 of chapter 30A.
(d) Four board members shall constitute a quorum. The board shall approve its actions by a majority vote. Board members may vote by proxy or by electronic means.
(e) The board shall establish rates for pilotage within the waters of the commonwealth based upon prevailing rates in other similar ports, the need to retain the services of the best qualified harbor pilots available and other economic conditions that may affect the quality of pilotage services in the ports.
(f) The board shall meet at least once annually in October on a date to be set by the chairperson but not later than October 15. The board may meet at other times as necessary to carry out its duties.
(g) Board members shall serve without compensation but shall be reimbursed for travel and other reasonable expenses at the rate such expenses are reimbursed to full time employees of the commonwealth. Such reimbursement shall be paid by the Boston Marine Society from funds received pursuant to section 5.
(h) Any decision of the board as to the rates for pilotage shall become effective within 60 days after the board's final decision on rates.
(i) The board shall determine how the rates for pilotage shall be made available to the maritime industry.
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts § 31A
What does Massachusetts General Laws § 31A cover?
Section 31A ("Pilotage rate board") is part of the Massachusetts General Laws, the codified statutory law of Massachusetts. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Massachusetts § 31A?
A common citation format is "Massachusetts General Laws § 31A" (Massachusetts). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Massachusetts law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Massachusetts official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Massachusetts attorney.
How does Massachusetts § 31A apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Massachusetts can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Massachusetts.