10 years since Boston pilots had a raise

Boston Harbor vessel traffic has remained steady while other ports have dropped 20 percent the past two years. Still, it has been over 10 years since the Boston pilotage association has had a pay raise. Their wages have fallen further behind the industry standards. This despite working in some of the toughest weather conditions in the country. Massachusetts bill S2174, the Pilot Rate Board Bill, would help remedy this disparity by giving local pilots an immediate 11.25% wage hike. The creation of the Rate Board will help keep the state’s ports properly funded into the future as rates will be reviewed annually. Moreover, pilot candidates with military service will be considered for employment. The bill cleared both houses of the legislature a few days ago and now sits on the desk of Governor Deval Patrick for his signature.

Source: Maritime Professional