Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-NY) wants the cruise ship industry to adopt a “bill of rights” for its passengers that would guarantee, among other things, backup generators and medical personnel to ensure safe and sanitary conditions, his office announced Monday.
“In response to a string of horrifying and dangerous incidents aboard international cruise ships, U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today unveiled his proposed Cruise Ship Passenger Bill of Rights,” Monday’s press release reads.
Schumer wants cruise ship companies to agree to a minimum of six guarantees to passengers while also calling for a federal investigation into cruise ships that are regulated by other countries.
1. The right to disembark a docked ship if basic provisions cannot adequately be provided onboard
2. The right to a full refund for a trip that is abruptly canceled due to mechanical failures
3. The right to full-time, on board professional medical attention in the event of a major health crisis
4. The right to real-time information updates as to any adjustments in the travel plan of the ship in the event of a mechanical failure or emergency
5. The right to a ship crew that is properly trained in emergency and evacuation procedures
6. The right to backup power in the case of a generator failure
