House Passes Cruise Ship Safety Legislation

October 27, 2009 |
Valor

Last week, the House passed cruise safety legislation that would “oblige cruise ships that serve U.S. ports to publicly report shipboard crimes, employ U.S. doctors and install peepholes in cabin doors, among other requirements.”
The Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2010, written by Congresswoman Doris O. Matsui (D-CA), requires the cruise industry to publicly report crimes and improve safety on board. It mandates peepholes and security latches in cabins.

The cruise industry has faced criticism in recent years for a series of high-profile cases involving missing passengers, sexual attacks and so-called sick ships. Cruise lines have largely been exempt from federal oversight. Most ships are registered in foreign countries, and companies are not required to pay income tax, comply with U.S. labor laws or report shipboard crimes and illness outbreaks to U.S. authorities.

The Times noted, “It’s the first time such a bill has made it to a House vote despite repeated attempts. The measure must still be approved by the Senate.”
Kendall Carver, president of International Cruise Victims said:

“It’s been a long road, and justice is winning out against an industry that really did everything they could to avoid regulations. . . . The victim’s voice has been heard.”

For more information read: House Passes Act that Includes Coast Guard and Cruise Sexual Assault Provisions