253 Russel Senate Office Building

The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will convene a full committee hearing, “The Connected World: Examining the Internet of Things.” The hearing will take place on Wednesday, February 11, 2015, at 9:45 a.m. Following last week’s Open Internet hearing, this upcoming proceeding will focus on how devices – from home heating systems controlled by users online, to wearable devices that track health and activity with the help of Internet-based analytics -- will be made smarter and more dynamic through Internet technologies. Government agencies like the Federal Trade Commission, however, are already considering possible changes to the law that could have the unintended consequence of slowing innovation.

“Standing on the cusp of technological innovations that will improve both the safety and convenience of everyday items, we shouldn’t let government needlessly slow the pace of new development,” said Thune in calling the hearing. “By engaging early in this debate, Congress can ensure that any government efforts to protect consumers are tailored for actual problems and avoid regulatory overreach.”

The hearing, which was requested by a bipartisan group of Senators including Sen. Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), Sen. Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), and Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii).

Hearing Details:

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Full Committee Hearing entitled: “The Connected World: Examining the Internet of Things.”

9:45 a.m. in room SR-253

For reporters interested in reserving a seat, please contact the press gallery:

•         Periodical Press Gallery – 202-224-0265

•         Radio/Television Gallery – 202-224-6421

•         Press Photographers Gallery – 202-224-6548

•         Daily Press Gallery – 202-224-0241

Please note the hearing will be webcast live via the Senate Commerce Committee website.  Refresh the Commerce Committee homepage 10 minutes prior to the scheduled start time to automatically begin streaming the webcast.

Individuals with disabilities who require an auxiliary aid or service, including closed captioning service for the webcast hearing, should contact Stephanie Gamache at 202-224-5511 at least three business days in advance of the hearing date.

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