The April 20 explosion of the Deepwater Horizon oil rig killed 11 maritime workers and brought the everyday hazards faced by offshore oil workers into the public eye. The U.S. House of Representative recently passed a bill that would amend the Jones Act and the Death on the High Seas Act to allow the families of those lost at sea to recover non-economic damages such as pain and suffering and  loss of care, comfort, or companionship.

 
On July 2, 2010 the House approved the Securing Protections for the Injured from the Limitations of Liability Act which amended the Death on the High Seas Act and Jones Act to allow families of deceased offshore workers to recover non-economic damages for their losses.

 
The bill now faces the Senate. The bill is strongly opposed by the U.S. Chamber of commerce and the cruise industry which have been lobbying against it. They worry that the change in the law may increase liability for industries that had nothing to do with the Gulf of Mexico oil spill. However, those in favor of the bill believe that increased liability may keep companies from the negligent behavior that causes many maritime accidents.

 
The New Orleans Jones Act attorneys at The Young Firm keep informed about the latest changes to maritime law. If you or a loved one was injured at sea, we are on your side. Call our office at 1-866-938-6113 to schedule a free consultation.