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Safer Seas Act: Protecting Against Harassment and Assault on Vessels

This act aims to enhance safety on vessels, particularly concerning sexual assault and harassment. It introduces new definitions, strengthens penalties for offenders, and imposes reporting obligations on vessel owners and crew. Citizens working at sea will gain greater protection and clear procedures for addressing violations.
Key points
Clearer definitions of sexual harassment and sexual assault on vessels.
Individuals convicted of sex offenses will be denied or have their mariner licenses revoked.
Mandatory video and audio surveillance systems on non-passenger commercial vessels, with law enforcement access.
Requirement for a master key control system logbook, limiting access to master keys.
Mandatory training for crew on prevention, reporting, and response to harassment and assault.
New mandatory reporting requirements for crew and vessel owners regarding sexual harassment and assault incidents, with penalties for non-compliance.
Extension of the statute of limitations for civil actions related to sexual harassment or assault at sea to 5 years.
Implementation of safety criteria for cadets at the Merchant Marine Academy, including access to support and training.
Potential for alcohol prohibition for crew on vessels if safety cannot be ensured otherwise.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 117_HR_6866
Sponsor: Rep. DeFazio, Peter A. [D-OR-4]
Process start date: 2022-02-28
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-05-20
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

Safer Seas Act

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 117_HR_6866.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the House of Representatives.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2022-02-28.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Clearer definitions of sexual harassment and sexual assault on vessels.
  • Individuals convicted of sex offenses will be denied or have their mariner licenses revoked.
  • Mandatory video and audio surveillance systems on non-passenger commercial vessels, with law enforcement access.
  • Requirement for a master key control system logbook, limiting access to master keys.
  • Mandatory training for crew on prevention, reporting, and response to harassment and assault.
  • New mandatory reporting requirements for crew and vessel owners regarding sexual harassment and assault incidents, with penalties for non-compliance.
  • Extension of the statute of limitations for civil actions related to sexual harassment or assault at sea to 5 years.
  • Implementation of safety criteria for cadets at the Merchant Marine Academy, including access to support and training.
  • Potential for alcohol prohibition for crew on vessels if safety cannot be ensured otherwise.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Rep. DeFazio, Peter A. [D-OR-4].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Referred to the Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-28.

CATEGORIES

Transport Courts and Law Security