Georgia Rep. Hank Johnson's Bill Could Make Ship Owner Pay Up to $854M for Baltimore Bridge Collapse

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A new bill introduced by Georgia Representative Hank Johnson could force the owner of a foreign-flagged ship to pay up to $854 million in damages for the collapse of Baltimore’s Francis Scott Key Bridge. The bill, co-sponsored by California Representative John Garamendi, seeks to amend the 1851 Limitation of Liability Act, which currently caps the liability of shipowners at the post-accident value of the vessel and its pending freight.

The proposed legislation follows the March 2024 incident where the container ship Dali, registered under a foreign flag, collided with the Key Bridge, causing it to collapse. The accident resulted in the deaths of six workers and significant damage, which the city of Baltimore has accused the ship's owners of gross negligence, labeling the vessel "clearly unseaworthy" at the time of the incident.

Currently, the shipowner's liability is limited to just $44 million, a figure significantly lower than the estimated cost of cleanup, bridge reconstruction, and compensation. Johnson’s bill would increase the liability for foreign-flagged ships to ten times the value of the vessel and its cargo, minus expenses, potentially making the Dali’s owners responsible for up to $854 million.

"This legislation is about ensuring that those responsible for such devastating incidents are held accountable," said Johnson. "It’s about protecting American lives and infrastructure from preventable failures by foreign vessels."

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The bill has garnered support from the families of the victims, who have been advocating for greater accountability. In a statement, their legal representatives emphasized that the legislation transcends political lines and focuses on safeguarding Americans from unnecessary tragedies caused by foreign vessels.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is still investigating the incident, and while the cause has yet to be determined, the new bill could have significant implications for the outcome of this case and future maritime accidents involving foreign-owned vessels.

Johnson’s proposal has also received backing from a group of trial lawyers representing the victims’ families, who argue that the current limitations on liability are outdated and inadequate for modern maritime incidents. "This bill is crucial for ensuring justice for those who suffer due to corporate negligence," the lawyers stated.

If passed, the bill would apply retroactively to cover the Key Bridge incident, a move that has sparked debate. However, supporters argue that retroactive civil statutes have precedent in U.S. law and are necessary to address the shortcomings of the existing liability framework.

The bill now moves to the House for further discussion and voting. Its outcome could set a new precedent in maritime law, particularly concerning the responsibilities of foreign-owned vessels operating in U.S. waters.