Texas Transportation Code - TRANSP § 68.038. Deputy Branch Pilot Appointment by Branch Pilot

(a) Each branch pilot may appoint, subject to examination and approval by the board, two deputy branch pilots.

(b) A branch pilot may appoint an additional deputy branch pilot if the board considers the appointment advisable.

(c) The board may not approve an appointment if the appointee is related to the branch pilot within the second degree by affinity or within the third degree by consanguinity, as determined under Subchapter B, Chapter 573, Government Code,  1 unless each member of the Brazos Pilots Association recommends the appointment in writing.

(d) A branch pilot who appoints a deputy branch pilot without the approval of the board forfeits the pilot's appointment as a branch pilot.