Legislature OKs Rules on Cruise Ship Pollution

Alaska will be the first U.S. state to regulate water and air pollution from cruise ships, under a bill passed by the state Legislature.

Lawmakers approved the landmark measure to put controls on the booming industry during a special session called by Gov. Tony Knowles, one of the chief advocates of the regulation.

The Democratic governor hailed the bill, similar to one that he had offered this spring to the Republican-controlled Legislature.

“The message is loud and clear that Alaskans care deeply about their oceans, its marine life and habitat,” Knowles said.