Rep. Doris Matsui Continues Fight to Make Cruise Vacations Safe for American Families
Today, Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-05) released the following statement in response to recent reports of continued calamities aboard cruise ships:
“This morning, I watched a news story break that one hundred patrons on a cruise ship had fallen ill. Even more disturbingly, just days ago, I heard yet another report of a woman being assaulted while on her cruise vacation. These instances must stop. Patrons of a cruise line should be assured that they will be safe and free to enjoy their vacations.
“My home state of California has acted quickly to introduce legislation to place peace officers on cruise ships, addressing one vital aspect of making cruise ships safer for the 12 million Americans who will take cruise vacations this year.
“We have now held two Congressional hearings on this issue, and I am working with Sen. John Kerry to introduce comprehensive legislation in the House and Senate to increase accountability of the cruise industry. For far too long, American families have unknowingly been at risk when they have embarked on what should have been relaxing sea voyages.
“I am pursuing multiple legislative avenues to make sure that the cruise industry takes action to keep their customers informed and safe. I will continue to fight to make sure that no person falls victim to harm on board a cruise ship as a result of inadequate oversight, reporting and safety precautions.
“It is heartbreaking to hear the shocking tales of good people who have suffered, and futilely sought recourse in the wake of an assault or crime. Our work will not be done until the cruise industry has stepped up and taken the necessary measures to provide a reasonable level of security for their customers.”
