A carrier may not insert in a bill of lading or shipping document a provision lessening or avoiding its obligation to exercise due diligence to—
(1) make the vessel seaworthy; and
(2) properly man, equip, and supply the vessel.
A provision described in subsection (a) is void.
(Pub. L. 109–304, § 6(c), Oct. 6, 2006, 120 Stat. 1516.)