Bill introduced to hold foreign vessel owner accountable for Baltimore bridge collapse

U.S. Representative John Garamendi (D-CA-08) introduced the “Justice for Victims of Foreign Vessel Accidents Act” (H.R.9348) today, alongside U.S. Representative Hank Johnson (D-GA-04). Garamendi, a long-time advocate on maritime issues and former California Insurance Commissioner, emphasized the bill's importance in holding foreign vessel owners accountable.

“If the foreign owners of the cargo vessel that took down the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore think they can leave American taxpayers holding the bag, I have a message for them: you broke it, you bought it. Access to America’s ports and our consumers is a privilege, not a right,” said Congressman Garamendi. He further stressed that these owners should bear the costs of replacing the bridge and compensating families affected by the incident.

Rep. Johnson highlighted the bill's role in ensuring accountability within maritime liability frameworks. “By enhancing the financial responsibilities of foreign vessel owners, this bill provides essential support to victims and their families,” he stated.

Attorneys representing victims of the Key Bridge disaster voiced strong support for the legislation. L. Chris Stewart and Justin Miller of Stewart, Miller Simmons Trial Attorneys; Dan Rose and Kevin Mahoney of Kreindler & Kreindler; and Craig Sico of Sico Law Group underscored its bipartisan appeal and protective measures for Americans against preventable failures by foreign vessels.

Under current law from 1851, vessel owners can limit their liability to the dollar value of their vessel and cargo minus expenses. Following the collision with Francis Scott Key Bridge, Dalia’s Singapore-based corporate owner sought to cap their liability at $43.7 million.

The proposed act would:

- Increase liability for foreign-flagged vessels up to ten times their value.

- Maintain existing thresholds for U.S.-flagged vessels.

- Apply retroactively from March 25, 2024.

Garamendi serves as a senior member on both the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and its Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation.