H.R. 4857, the Cruise Passenger Protection Act of 2025, establishes comprehensive new protections for cruise ship passengers by creating an Office of Maritime Consumer Protection within the Department of Transportation to oversee cruise line compliance and handle consumer complaints. The bill requires cruise lines to provide clear contract summaries before passengers are bound to agreements, eliminates forced arbitration and class action waivers so passengers can pursue disputes in court, and establishes an advisory committee to recommend ongoing improvements to consumer protections. Additionally, the bill creates a victim support services program with a 24-hour hotline and crime database, requires cruise ships with 250+ passengers to report crimes to the FBI within 4 hours and maintain video surveillance for one year, and mandates enhanced security measures including electronic access logging for crew, crime scene preservation training, and stronger medical staffing standards. The Coast Guard is tasked with developing video retention and security standards within one year, and can withhold vessel clearance for safety violations or unpaid penalties.
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