The cruise lines have done an about-face and are now supporting proposed federal legislation that would compel their $38 billion industry to be more diligent in reporting crimes on their vessels.

According to The Los Angeles Times, shipboard crime reporting would be mandatory and all cabins would be outfitted with peepholes and security latches for occupant safety under the pending legislation. In addition, the cruise lines would have to make sure on-board medical personnel are trained to deal with sexual assaults.

For too long, the industry used its powerful lobby in Washington to block any such regulations. Clark isn't exactly sure why the cruise lines have had a change of heart now. Perhaps it's because they knew they were winning the battle in Washington, but losing the war in the public eye whenever a high-profile crime on the high seas became fodder for the tabloids.

The consumer champ himself distinctly recalls being on a cruise once when a crew member entered his room late at night. The man ran out of the cabin and disappeared after Clark abruptly awoke from his sleep.

These proposed regulations are so long overdue. In fact, the whole issue also speaks to a problem in Washington. For as long as the cruise industry was opposed, the politicians made sure that nothing happened. D.C. has for too long had a business model where whoever gives money to the politicians wins.

In spite of the problems, Clark wants to reiterate that going on a cruise is an overwhelmingly safe thing to do. Of course, anytime the ships themselves try to cover things up, they're creating suspicion.