Sec. 61.003. DUTY TO ENGAGE PILOT. (a) A consignee having control of a vessel shall obtain a pilot to provide pilot services when the vessel is under way or otherwise moving on a river, bay, harbor, or port in this state unless the vessel is:

(1) documented as a United States vessel and licensed for and engaged in coastwise trade;

(2) a public vessel;

(3) of 20 gross tons or less;

(4) a motorboat registered in this state; or

(5) subject to Subsection (b), in distress or jeopardy.

(b) A consignee having control of a vessel that is in distress or jeopardy shall take on a pilot as soon as the pilot arrives at the vessel.

Acts 1995, 74th Leg., ch. 165, Sec. 1, eff. Sept. 1, 1995.