In news that potentially could affect all cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean, New York Senator Charles "Chuck" Schumer is asking the cruise industry to adopt a "bill of rights" for passengers that will guarantee certain protections while aboard their ships.
The Democrat from New York says he will ask the big cruise lines to voluntarily adopt guidelines that would include guarantees that cruise ships have sanitary conditions, back-up power, medical staff and other standard procedures.
Schumer's plan would also include the right to a full refund if a trip is abruptly canceled due to mechanical problems.
The senator is also calling on the Secretary of State to negotiate with countries that host cruise ships U.S. passengers use to adopt the rights.
