HOUSTON, Dec. 10, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Board of Pilot Commissioners for Harris County Ports conditionally approved a 3.5% pilotage rate increase sought by the Houston Pilots.

Board Chairman Janiece Longoria proposed the action, on the condition that the pilots and industry parties meet a March 3 deadline to agree on pilot tariff and guideline reforms.

The Pilot Board, which is made up of members of the Port Commission of the Port of Houston Authority, endorsed the proposal and continued the hearing until January 28, when the board is expected to act on a written decision in the pilot rate application.