CLIA: "Criminal background checks are a requirement for all crewmembers and these are provided either directly by the crewmember from their local police department or via third parties.  This is in addition to the reviews undertaken by the US Government in connection with issuing C1D Visas. Every time a crewmember enters the US they are vetted by CBP just like everyone who enters the country."

Local 2 Investigates: "Does your organization believe the cruise vessel security act protects passengers?"

CLIA: "CLIA members actively supported passage and enactment of the CVSSA and is a strong believer in the benefits it provides passengers and crew. However, CLIA does not rely upon the CVSSA or other laws alone to establish and foster an appropriate crime reporting program and response protocol.  For example, in 2007 CLIA entered into a formal agreement on behalf of all its member lines with the FBI and Coast Guard that goes beyond the legal requirements of 33 CFR Part 120 and the CVSSA. The agreement covers serious incidents involving Americans on all voyages, not just those to or from the U.S.  This reporting aspect helps ensure that the FBI is involved immediately in any serious incident worldwide when an American is involved. No traveler in any other context has this sort of protection.  When Americans travel abroad by any other mode, no matter what the length or purpose of the trip, they are not protected by any comparable reporting laws.  There are no laws that require the reporting of such incidents on planes, trains---or even when patrons visit hotels, resorts, theme parks and entertainment complexes in the U.S. or abroad.  This strict, multi-level reporting regime on cruise ships ensures that it continues to be one of the safest vacation options available."