President Barack Obama today signed the Cruise Vessel Safety and Security Act into law. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) fully supports the law and worked closely with lawmakers in Congress on the legislation, sponsored by Senator John Kerry (D-MA) and Representative Doris Matsui (D-CA).

“The Cruise Lines International Association supports the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act signed by the President today as we share Congress’ efforts to ensure that cruising remains safe,” said CLIA president and CEO Terry Dale. “The safety and security of our guests and crew is CLIA’s number one priority. Although millions of guests each year enjoy a safe cruise vacation, we welcome the opportunity to ensure consistency across our member line fleets.”

For example, while many ships in the CLIA fleet may already feature 42-inch railings, peepholes in all cabins, onboard video surveillance systems, and employ medical personnel who meet guidelines established by the American College of Emergency Physicians, the new law will make these and other new provisions consistent across the fleet.  

“We appreciate the work Congress and the Administration have done to bring consistency and clarity to the security and safety laws and regulations for our industry. We look forward to continuing our longstanding work with the U.S. Coast Guard, FBI, and law enforcement both here and around the world to ensure the bill’s provisions are implemented appropriately,” added Dale.

The cruise industry is committed to providing guests and crew with a safe environment. CLIA members maintain a rigorous set of policies and procedures designed both to prevent onboard incidents and to ensure an immediate and effective response when such incidents occur. This includes meeting a previous federal requirement to report to the FBI allegations of serious crimes occurring in U.S. waters or on a vessel operating to and from a U.S. port.