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SB 748

An Act amending the act of May 11, 1889 (P.L.188, No.210), entitled "A further supplement to an act, entitled 'An act to establish a board of wardens for the Port of Philadelphia, and for the regulation of pilots and pilotage, and for other purposes,' approved March twenty-ninth, one thousand eight hundred and three, and for regulating the rates of pilotage and number of pilots," further providing for rates of pilotage and computation, for pilotage fees and unit charge and for charges for services.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Lisa Boscola and 3 co-sponsors

SB 748 updates Philadelphia port pilotage fee structures and rate calculations, modernizing regulatory rates that affect shipping costs and port competitiveness.

Act No. 42 of 2025
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Bill Summary · SB 748

Legislative bill overview

SB 748 amends Pennsylvania's 1889 port pilotage law to modify how pilotage rates are calculated and charged for services at the Port of Philadelphia. The bill updates the fee structure and unit charges that pilots charge vessels entering and exiting the port, modernizing a regulatory framework that has remained largely unchanged for over a century.

Why is this important

Pilotage rates directly affect shipping costs and port competitiveness, influencing everything from consumer goods prices to the port's ability to attract cargo traffic. Philadelphia's port is a major economic engine for the region, and updated rate structures can impact both maritime commerce and the livelihoods of licensed pilots who guide large vessels through the port.

Potential points of contention

  • Economic impact on shipping: Changes to pilotage fees may increase operational costs for shipping companies, potentially affecting port competitiveness against other East Coast ports like Baltimore and New York
  • Pilot income and labor relations: Rate adjustments could benefit or burden pilots depending on whether fees increase or decrease, affecting their earnings and the attractiveness of the profession
  • Transparency and rate-setting methodology: The bill's specific rate calculations and the process for future adjustments are not detailed in the summary, raising questions about whether increases are justified by inflation, operational costs, or other factors

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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