Bill > HR2922

This bill, known as Hammers' Law, aims to modify existing maritime law to provide authorization for nonpecuniary damages in legal actions arising from cruise ship voyages on the high seas. Specifically, the bill expands the existing legal framework by defining a "cruise ship" as a passenger vessel that can carry a significant number of passengers, has onboard sleeping facilities, embarks or disembarks in the United States, and is not engaged in coastwise voyages. The bill introduces a clear definition of "nonpecuniary damages" as compensation for loss of care, comfort, and companionship, which was previously not explicitly outlined in the law. By amending Section 30307 of Title 46 of the United States Code, the legislation broadens the scope of legal recourse for individuals involved in incidents during cruise ship voyages, allowing them to seek damages for emotional and relational losses. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives by a bipartisan group of legislators, including Representatives Bacon, Van Drew, Matsui, and Scanlon, and was referred to the Committee on the Judiciary for further review.

Justice

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/2922/all-info