<p>WASHINGTON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The International Cruise Victims Association, Inc. (ICV), a not-for-profit corporation formed by victims and families of victims of cruise crimes, applauded the unanimous passage of the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2009 by the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, introduced by Congresswoman Doris O. Matsui (D-CA). Currently, cruise ships operating under foreign flags of convenience are not required under U.S. law to report crimes occurring outside of U.S. territorial waters. H.R. 3660 would ensure that crimes committed while aboard cruise ships do not escape the jurisdiction of American law enforcement.</p>
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<p>&ldquo;This issue was originally brought to my attention by a constituent of mine, and in the past three years, I have met far too many American families which have incurred tragedy during what ought to be a relaxing vacation,&rdquo; said Congresswoman Matsui. &ldquo;For far too long, American families have unknowingly been at risk on cruise ships. The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2009 will ensure the safety and protection of millions of Americans who embark on cruises each year.&rdquo;</p>
<p>The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2009 incorporates the recommendations of the International Cruise Victims Association (ICV), as well as many of their partner organizations. Kendall Carver, President of ICV, declared today&rsquo;s hearing as a &ldquo;historic step in starting to improve the safety for all passengers on cruise ships. Congresswoman Matsui and Senator John Kerry&rsquo;s efforts have made the difference in moving this legislation forward. Their efforts are appreciated by myself and all other victims and their families that are members of International Cruise Victims Association.&rdquo;</p>
<p>&ldquo;Congresswoman Matsui has taken the lead on this very important issue and has helped raise awareness about crimes on cruise ships all over the world,&rdquo; said Laurie Dishman, Rep. Matsui&rsquo;s constituent who was raped on a cruise ship in 2006, and has testified on the need for this legislation before Congress. &ldquo;I cannot thank my Congresswoman enough for&nbsp;not only answering my letter, but for helping to make it safer for passengers when taking a cruise. She truly is my &lsquo;hero&rsquo; and has stood by my side for the past 3&frac12; years.&rdquo;</p>
<p>As this crucial legislation moves forward, it serves as a sign to many among the ICV&rsquo;s community of followers that progress is being made toward ensuring the safety of Americans abroad. The Senate Commerce Committee passed similar legislation just a few weeks ago, and now both chambers are ready to consider the legislation on the floor.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Final passage of this bill would be proof to the world that our small group of volunteers with limited funds has been able to make a difference in the safety of Americans,&rdquo; Carver said. &ldquo;When the Cruise Safety bill is signed into law, it will serve to protect Americans across the nation during what ought to be relaxing vacations.&rdquo;</p>