Federal judge throws out CDC’s cruise safety regulations

[Ombligo]

A federal judge has ruled that after July 18 the CDC can not require cruise lines to follow the guidelines it issued.

Cruise lines had agreed to sail under CDC rules requiring a 95% vaccination rate of all passengers and crew, and full masking. The Cruiselines could still follow those rules voluntarily, and most have indicated they want to - but Florida law does not allow such a restriction on passengers.

While Florida governor Ron Deathsantis celebrated the ruling as a win for the public and those who rely on the cruise industry for employment, some cruise lines have said they might move operations outside the state to maintain safety.

[SteveG]

Now featuring the All You Can Breathe Respirator Buffet!

[Ombligo]

Royal Caribbean has announced that all may sail, but passengers not having proof of vaccination will have restrictions to wit:

- They will have to undergo COVID-19 testing before boarding and before disembarking the cruise ship at a cost of $136 total. Those passengers will also be required to have a polymerase chain reaction or PCR test within three days of the cruise’s start at their own cost.
- They will not be able to attend all events or go to all venues. Some events and venues will be restricted to vaccinated passengers only, where masks will not be required.
- Mealtimes will be restricted as will seating location

Vaccinated passengers will be given a wristband that shows they are vaccinated, while unvaccinated passengers will have a hole punched in their key cards. Passengers have to show their key cards to get into all venues, lounges, and events.

Some ports may also not allow unvaccinated passengers to disembark the ship.


I expect they will be a lawsuit filed that the restrictions are discrimatory.

[DeusxMac]

Steven Douglas Merryday, 70; appointed by George H. W. Bush, February 10, 1992

[Speedy]

Color me surprised.

DeusxMac wrote:
Steven Douglas Merryday, 70; appointed by George H. W. Bush, February 10, 1992

[RgrF]

HW, isn't he the same guy who thought Clarence Thomas would be a suitable replacement for Thurgood Marshall?