Introduction of Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2009

Floor Speech

INTRODUCTION OF CRUISE VESSEL SECURITY AND SAFETY ACT OF 2009 -- (House of Representatives - April 01, 2009)

(Ms. MATSUI asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)

Ms. MATSUI. Madam Speaker, members of the International Cruise Victims are on Capitol Hill this week to raise awareness of cruise safety issues.

Over 13 million Americans will take a cruise this year. However, few passengers are fully aware of the potential for a crime to occur, and those who are victimized often do not know their legal rights and whom to contact for help.

Those who have come to Capitol Hill this week have lost daughters, parents, aunts and husbands, and some were victims of sexual assault or other crimes on the high seas.

Due to the absence of law enforcement officials on ocean voyages, it can be difficult or impossible to properly resolve many of these crimes.

That is why I have introduced the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2009 with Senator Kerry. This bill has been informed by three congressional hearings and the stories of the individuals who bravely came forward.

I want to thank Ken Carver, Laurie Dishman and the many others who have come here to bring awareness to this issue.

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