New Cruise Passenger Protection Act proposed by lawmakers

A group of lawmakers led by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal have introduced a bill to strengthen passenger safety on cruise ships.

The Cruise Passenger Protection Act (CPPA) aims to expand on the existing protections signed into law in 2010 in the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act.

The new bill will hold cruise lines responsible for deaths at sea, and improve crime reporting video surveillance and medical standards.

Blumenthal has attempted to get similar bills passed on two previous occasions.

“Many cruise ships are the size of small towns – but with few emergency services and no law enforcement, these vessels are more Wild West than Atlantis,” he said.

“When something goes wrong on a cruise ship, a dream vacation can quickly turn into a nightmare. Our legislation will ensure that consumers know the risks associated with cruise ship travel before they buy a ticket; and if their rights are violated, this bill will help ensure that they have a place to seek recourse.”

The bill was also brought by U.S. Representative Jim Himes who said: “This bill bolsters current law with tighter crime reporting, expanded video surveillance equipment and record-keeping requirements, and streamlined tracking and public reporting of alleged crimes on cruise ships. Safety improvements like these will help prevent more avoidable tragedies.”

source: TravelMole