I think the time has come. PoBs should be treated ID line wise as trade ships, at least core 3+.
Reasoning: PoBs no longer attack hostiles without being sieged, losing their offensive capability in zoning areas. They also die 6x or 12x faster unattended (me noob).
You will force demands and roleplay with them being done much like with transports, which they really are now. Nomads or mortal enemies will still be able to attack without negotiations/demands, just like they can with transports.