U.S. Lawmakers Re-Introduce Cruise Ship Safety Legislation

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Doris Matsui (D-CA) have introduced yet another version of the “Cruise Passenger Protection Act” legislation in an attempt to “improve the safety and well-being of cruise ship travelers,” according to a release from the Senator’s office.

Among other requirements, the legislation would ensure that passengers are fully aware of their rights before they board their ship. It also provides cruise ship passengers with a means of seeking recourse should their rights be violated.

“Cruises should be a time of rest and relaxation – but a dream vacation can quickly turn into a nightmare if there are inadequate safety measures for travelers,” said Senator Blumenthal. “This legislation works to bring cruise passengers peace of mind by providing them with information of their rights in advance of their voyage and a path to access justice if their rights are violated. With this critical legislation, we bolster protections for cruise travelers – making safety a top priority…”

“Cruises are billed as safe, family-friendly vacations – but when emergencies happen, passengers still lack the rights and protections they deserve,” added Representative Matsui.

The legislation is a re-introduction of a previous version of the “Cruise Passenger Protection Act,” and is intended to improve medical care onboard, strengthen safety measures, and ensure proper investigations when violent crimes occur onboard. The initial Act was first introduced in 2017 as a proposed expansion of the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010. Another version of the Act was introduced in 2022. No version of the Act has ever been voted on.

The current legislation is cosponsored in the U.S. Senate by Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA).