New Rules for Tug Escorts

On November 20, the Board of Pilotage Commissioners adopted a new rule that expands tug escort requirements to reduce risk of oil spills in Puget Sound. Specifically, the board adopted section of Chapter 363-116 Washington Administrative Code, Pilotage Rules, to establish tug escort requirements for oil tankers between 5,000 and 40,000 deadweight tons (DWT) and barges and articulated tug barges greater than 5,000 DWT.