WASHINGTON, DC – After a multi-day viral outbreak that infected close to 700 people with a painful stomach illness, the cruise ship “Explorer of the Seas” reached port in New Jersey.

Issues with cruise ships and conditions on them led Congressman John Garamendi (D-Fairfield, CA), to propose the Cruise Ship Passenger Bill of Rights, H.R. 3475.

“At times, the cruise industry seems like the Wild West on the high seas,” said Garamendi, who serves as the ranking member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee.

“Most trips are fine, but when things go wrong, passengers are often left confused, bewildered and at the mercy of cruise lines for any compensation or reimbursement for the untimely and premature termination of their voyage. And that’s just not right. Cruise ship passengers have a right to know in advance whether they are booking passage on the ‘Love Boat’ or on a voyage to despair,” he said.

“As a former insurance commissioner, I know that this industry requires consumer protections that are tough and fair. As ranking member, I will advocate for this latest incident to be examined by the subcommittee,” he said.

Garamendi's proposed Cruise Ship Passenger Bill of Rights includes a provision that requires disclosure of any incidences of outbreaks of illness.

“Everyone buying a ticket for a cruise has the right to know what has happened on that ship and what the obligations of the operator are should things go wrong,” he said.

The full text of the bill can be seen here: http://1.usa.gov/MjaeIZ .