Hearings

Hearings 12/9/2021
Disrupting Dangerous Algorithms: Addressing the Harms of Persuasive Technology
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Chair of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband will convene a hearing titled, “Disrupting Dangerous Algorithms: Addressing the Harms of Persuasive Technology,” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 9, 2021. This hearing will consider legislative solutions that address the dangers of online platforms’ use of technology to manipulate user experiences. Witnesses will discuss the need for greater transparency of automated processes and artificial intelligence, as well as policies to make platforms accountable for their use of algorithms designed to optimize engagement over harm to users.
Hearings 12/8/2021
Protecting Kids Online: Instagram and Reforms for Young Users
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security will convene a hearing titled, “Protecting Kids Online: Instagram and Reforms for Young Users,” at 2:30 pm on Wednesday, December 8, 2021. News reports, whistleblower revelations, and academic research are providing a clearer view of the impact of social media applications on children and teens, especially on their mental health and wellbeing. Parents are deeply concerned about the product designs and powerful algorithms that push content to kids and create addiction-like behaviors. This hearing will address what Instagram knows about its impacts on young users, its commitments to reform, and potential legislative solutions.
Hearings 12/7/2021
Uncharted Waters: Challenges Posed by Ocean Shipping Supply Chains
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Gary Peters Blumenthal (D- MI), Chair of the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports will convene a hearing titled, “Uncharted Waters: Challenges Posed by Ocean Shipping Supply Chains,” at 10:00 am on Tuesday, December 7, 2021. This hearing will examine the impacts of COVID-19 on the ocean shipping supply chain that have led businesses and consumers across the country to experience major delays and price increases. While the underlying issues are multifaceted, this hearing would look at some of the most timely problems being faced today. Specifically, the hearing will examine the business and operational practices around ocean shipping that have contributed to these challenges.
Hearings 12/1/2021
Executive Session and Nominations Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session at 10:15 a.m. on Wednesday, December 1, 2021 to consider the following nominations:
Hearings 11/30/2021
Hidden Holiday Hazards: Product Safety During the Holiday Season
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security will convene a hearing titled, “Hidden Holiday Hazards: Product Safety During the Holiday Season,” at 10:00 am on Tuesday, November 30, 2021. This hearing will address product safety concerns that often arise around the holidays, such as counterfeit toys with small parts that can be accidentally ingested, and malfunctioning holiday decorations can cause fire hazards, and legislative solutions that can address these dangers.
Hearings 11/17/2021
Executive Session and Nominations Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 17, 2021 to consider the following measures:
Hearings 11/3/2021
Implementation of Aviation Safety Reform
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a full committee hearing titled “Implementation of Aviation Safety Reform” at 10:00 a.m. EDT on Wednesday, November 3, 2021. This hearing will examine the urgency of implementing aviation safety, certification, and oversight reforms mandated by the Aircraft, Certification, Safety, and Accountability Act (“ACSAA”) of 2020. The Committee will discuss the approach of the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”) to effectuating ACSAA and its work to implement provisions of the legislation in accordance with congressionally-mandated timelines. Topics such as the FAA’s delegation and certification processes, safety culture, and systems oversight practices since the passage of ACSAA will be covered.
Hearings 10/26/2021
Protecting Kids Online: Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security will convene a hearing titled “Protecting Kids Online: Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube” at 10:00 am on Tuesday, October 26, 2021. Children and teens face immense peer pressure to be on apps such as Snapchat, TikTok, and YouTube. While social media can provide entertainment and educational opportunities, these apps have also been misused to harm kids and promote destructive acts, such as vandalism in schools, deadly viral challenges, bullying, eating disorders, manipulative influencer marketing, and grooming. This hearing will examine how tech companies treat young audiences, including how algorithms and product design choices can amplify harms, addiction, and intrusions into privacy. The hearing will also explore needed improvements to our laws to protect children and teenagers online.
Hearings 10/21/2021
International Collaboration and Competition in Space: Oversight of NASA’s Role and Programs
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Chair of the Subcommittee on Space and Science, will convene a subcommittee hearing titled “International Collaboration and Competition in Space: Oversight of NASA’s Role and Programs” at 10:00 a.m. EDT on Thursday, October 21, 2021. The United States has long been the global leader in space exploration and has benefitted from robust, peaceful international collaboration. This hearing will examine required actions, particularly at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), to promote U.S. civil and commercial space sector competitiveness, attract and maintain strong global partnerships, and preserve U.S. space leadership in the wake of rising international competition. Topics such as International Space Station extension, commercial low-Earth orbit (LEO) development, and requirements to execute NASA’s Artemis program, to include needed updates to authorizing legislation, will be considered.
Hearings 10/20/2021
Executive Session and Nominations Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 20, 2021 to consider the presidential nominations of Victoria Marie Wassmer, to be the Chief Financial Officer, DOT; Mohsin Raza Syed, to be Assistant Secretary for Government Affairs, DOT; Amitabha Bose, to be the Administrator of the Federal Railroad Administration, DOT; Meera Joshi to be the Administrator of the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration; Mary Boyle, to be a Commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission; and Rear Admiral Nancy Hann, to be Director, NOAA Commissioned Officer Corps and Office of Marine and Aviation Operations. Immediately following the executive session, the Committee will hold a hearing to consider the presidential nominations of Max Vekich to be a Commissioner of the Federal Maritime Commission; Christopher Coes to be Assistant Secretary for Transportation Policy, DOT; and Laurie E. Locascio, to be Under Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology, DOC.
Hearings 10/19/2021
Commerce Committee Announces Subcommittee Hearing on Coast Guard Oversight on Tuesday, October 19, 2021
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), the Chair of the Senate Subcommittee on Oceans, Fisheries, Climate Change, and Manufacturing , will convene a hearing titled “Coast Guard Oversight” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 19, 2021. This hearing will examine the Coast Guard’s role to safeguard our nation’s maritime interests to include budget oversight, oil spill response, marine safety, handling of sexual assault and harassment in the service, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Hearings 10/7/2021
State of Telehealth: Removing Barriers to Access and Improving Patient Outcomes
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, will convene a hearing titled “State of Telehealth: Removing Barriers to Access and Improving Patient Outcomes” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 7, 2021. The hearing will examine the importance of access to telehealth services, the utilization and changes during the COVID-19 pandemic, the critical role of access to broadband in the public health response, and how to structure future deployment and policy to address the needs of underserved communities.
Hearings 10/6/2021
Enhancing Data Security
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a full committee hearing titled “Enhancing Data Security” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 6, 2021. This hearing is the second in a series examining the growing urgency to protect consumer privacy and safeguard our data, as well as the need to ensure the Federal Trade Commission is equipped with the authorities and resources to fight digital harms and hold bad actors accountable for increasing privacy violations, data breaches, internet scams, ransomware assaults and other harmful data abuses.
Hearings 10/5/2021
Protecting Kids Online: Testimony from a Facebook Whistleblower
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security will convene a hearing titled “Protecting Kids Online: Testimony from a Facebook Whistleblower” at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 5, 2021. Recent Wall Street Journal investigations have revealed troubling insights regarding how Instagram affects teenagers, how it handles children onto the platform, and other consumer protection matters related to Facebook. The hearing will provide an opportunity for a Facebook whistleblower to discuss their perspective and experience with the Subcommittee, including how to update children’s privacy regulations and other laws to protect consumers online.
Hearings 09/30/2021
Protecting Kids Online: Facebook, Instagram, and Mental Health Harms
WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal, Chair of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security will convene a hearing titled “Protecting Kids Online: Facebook, Instagram, and Mental Health Harms” at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, September 30, 2021. Children and teens face immense peer pressure and social expectations to broadcast their lives online. Recent Wall Street Journal investigations have revealed troubling insights regarding what Facebook knows about how Instagram affects young users, including their mental health. This hearing will cover Facebook’s research into the impact of its apps on young audiences, its actions to address threats to these users, and policy considerations to safeguard kids online.
Hearings 09/29/2021
Protecting Consumer Privacy
WASHINGTON, D.C. —U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will convene a hearing titled “Protecting Consumer Privacy” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 29, 2021. This hearing will examine how to better safeguard consumer privacy rights, including by equipping the Federal Trade Commission with the resources it needs to protect consumer privacy through the creation of a privacy bureau; and the need for a comprehensive federal privacy law.
Hearings 09/22/2021
Executive Session and Nominations Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 22, 2021 to consider the presidential nominations of Alexander Hoehn-Saric to be a Commissioner and Chair of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC); Mary T. Boyle to be a Commissioner of the CPSC; Richard Trumka, Jr. to be a Commissioner of the CPSC; and Grant Harris to be Assistant Secretary for Industry and Analysis at the Department of Commerce.
Hearings 09/21/2021
Legislative Solutions to Revive Travel and Tourism and Create Jobs
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chair of the Subcommittee on Tourism, Trade, and Export Promotion will convene a hearing titled “Legislative Solutions to Revive Travel and Tourism and Create Jobs” at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, September 21, 2021. This hearing will examine a staff discussion draft of bipartisan legislation, the Omnibus Travel and Tourism Act of 2021, that would support the recovery of the travel and tourism economy in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The draft Omnibus Travel and Tourism Act includes provisions to study the impacts of COVD-19 on the travel and tourism industry, elevate travel and tourism matters at the US Department of Commerce, promote travel to the United States, and set visitation goals for international travelers to the United States.
Hearings 08/23/2021
POSTPONED: Commerce Committee Announces August 23 Subcommittee Field Hearing on Space and Science in Colorado Springs, CO
POSTPONED— The Subcommittee on Space and Science field hearing titled “Collaboration and Competition in Space: Ushering in a New Era” originally scheduled for Monday, August 23, 2021 at 2pm MDT in Colorado Springs, Colorado, has been postponed until a later date.
Hearings 08/4/2021
Executive Session
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 4, 2021, to consider the following measures and nominations:
Hearings 08/3/2021
Toxic Marketing Claims and Their Dangers
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security, will convene a hearing titled, “Toxic Marketing Claims and Their Dangers” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 3, 2021. The hearing will address, among other topics, how alleged deceptive marketing practices and claims may have fueled the proliferation of unsafe products among vulnerable populations in the United States, particularly those of e-cigarettes and vaporizers among youth and current smokers looking for cessation tools.
Hearings 07/28/2021
Nomination Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a full committee hearing at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday July 28, 2021 to consider the presidential nominations of Alexander Hoehn-Saric to be a Commissioner and Chair of the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC); Mary T. Boyle to be a Commissioner of the CPSC; Richard Trumka, Jr. to be a Commissioner of the CPSC; and Grant Harris to be Assistant Secretary for Industry and Analysis at the Department of Commerce.
Hearings 07/27/2021
Pipeline Cybersecurity: Protecting Critical Infrastructure
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will convene a hearing titled “Pipeline Cybersecurity: Protecting Critical Infrastructure“ at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 27, 2021. The hearing will examine the current state of pipeline cybersecurity and the role that federal regulators play in protecting our nation’s critical infrastructure from malicious actors. This hearing will provide members an opportunity to examine recent actions taken in response to pipeline cyber incidents and gaps in our current oversight and regulatory structure.
Hearings 07/22/2021
Space Situational Awareness, Space Traffic Management, and Orbital Debris: Examining Solutions for Emerging Threats
U.S. Senator John Hickenlooper, Chair of the Subcommittee on Space and Science, will convene a hearing titled “Space Situational Awareness, Space Traffic Management, and Orbital Debris: Examining Solutions for Emerging Threats” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 22, 2021. Reliable space situational awareness (“SSA”) data and civil space traffic management (“STM”) services are critical to enabling continued growth of the innovative commercial space industry. As the number of satellites in orbit rapidly increases, the nation must redouble its efforts to track and manage objects in space. Witnesses will discuss the policies, programs, and research needed for effective civil SSA, STM, and orbital debris mitigation.
Hearings 07/15/2021
Implementing Supply Chain Resiliency
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Implementing Supply Chain Resiliency” at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, July 15, 2021. The Department of Commerce (DOC) has an increasingly important role in ensuring the resiliency of the nation’s critical supply chains. These responsibilities stem from directives found in the FY21 National Defense Authorization Act, Biden Executive Order 14017 and its 100-day supply chain review, and potentially from the United States Innovation and Competition Act. The hearing will inform Committee oversight as DOC executes these responsibilities, highlighting critical supply chains such as in the aerospace and semiconductor sectors.
Hearings 06/24/2021
Nomination Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nomination hearing at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 24, 2021 to consider the presidential nominations of the Hon. Jennifer L. Homendy to be Chair of the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB); Ms. Karen J. Hedlund to be a Member of the Surface Transportation Board (STB); Dr. Robert C. Hampshire to be Assistant Secretary for Research and Technology, Department of Transportation (DOT); and Ms. Carol A. Petsonk to be Assistant Secretary for Aviation and International Affairs, DOT.
Hearings 06/23/2021
Aviation Infrastructure for the 21st Century
WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations, and Innovation will convene a hearing titled, “Aviation Infrastructure for the 21st Century” at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 23, 2021. The hearing will examine the current state of aviation infrastructure in the United States as well as plans for maintaining and modernizing such infrastructure. Assessing aviation infrastructure funding options, the varying airport infrastructure needs by airport size, and analyzing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on domestic aviation infrastructure moving forward will be considered.
Hearings 06/22/2021
Building Resilient Networks
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, will convene a hearing titled “Building Resilient Networks” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 22, 2021. The hearing will examine ways in which the federal government can support deployment of resilient, redundant, and secure broadband and telecommunications infrastructure, and review the lessons learned from outage incidents. The hearing will focus on gaps revealed by these incidents and legislative proposals to improve network resiliency and reliability.
Hearings 06/17/2021
NCAA Student Athletes and NIL Rights
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled “NCAA Student Athletes and NIL Rights” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, June 17, 2021. The hearing will highlight the experiences of college athletes as Congress considers proposals to enable the athletes to monetize their name, image, and likeness (“NIL”); improve athlete health care; and enhance scholarship protections and transfer rights; among other matters.
Hearings 06/16/2021
Executive Session
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 16, 2021, to consider the following measures and nominations:
Hearings 06/15/2021
The State of Outdoor Tourism, Recreation, & Ecotourism
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Tourism, Trade, and Export Promotion, will convene a hearing titled, “The State of Outdoor Tourism, Recreation, & Ecotourism” at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, June 15, 2021. This hearing will examine the state of outdoor tourism and the recreation industry, including the impacts of COVID-19 on businesses and communities. Over the past year, there has been an increase in participation and demand in outdoor recreation, which has created both challenges and opportunities for the industry. Witnesses will provide their insights surrounding the contributions of outdoor recreation to local economies and discuss solutions for promoting the outdoor industry, investing in local communities, protecting our lands and waters, and supporting U.S. jobs and businesses.
Hearings 06/9/2021
NCAA Athlete NIL Rights
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled “NCAA Athlete NIL Rights” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 9, 2021. The hearing will address federal legislative proposals to enable athletes participating in collegiate sports to monetize their name, image, and likeness (“NIL”); improve athlete health care; and enhance scholarship protections and academic outcomes, among others. The hearing will also review recent changes in state laws around NIL.
Hearings 05/25/2021
Investing In America’s Tourism and Hospitality Workforce and Small Businesses
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Tourism, Trade, and Export Promotion, will convene a hearing titled, “Investing In America’s Tourism and Hospitality Workforce and Small Businesses,” at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 25, 2021. This hearing will examine the state of the tourism and hospitality workforce in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, in addition to the experiences and challenges of small businesses in those sectors. Additionally, this hearing will review regional impacts of COVID-19 on economies that rely on the tourism and hospitality workforce and provide insight on how Congress can support workers and small businesses as the travel and tourism industry rebounds.
Hearings 05/20/2021
Executive Session
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 20, 2021, to consider the nomination of Eric S. Lander to be the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP). Directly following the executive session, the committee will consider the presidential nominations of Pamela A. Melroy to be Deputy Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA); Carlos A. Monje, Jr. to be Under Secretary of Transportation for Policy; and Richard W. Spinrad to be Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere.
Hearings 05/18/2021
Reviving International Travel and Tourism to Create and Restore Jobs
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Tourism, Trade, and Export Promotion, will convene a hearing titled, “Reviving International Travel and Tourism to Create and Restore Jobs,” at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 18, 2021. This hearing will examine the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on international travel to the United States, with a particular focus on ripple-effects on other industries, such as hospitality and tourism. It will also review regional impacts of COVID-19 on the communities and workers hardest hit by decreases in international travel to the United States. Witnesses will have the opportunity to provide their insights surrounding these critical issues, as well as discuss solutions for supporting, promoting, and revitalizing safe international travel to the U.S. moving forward, increasing international tourism, and supporting businesses and workers dependent on leisure and business travelers from abroad.
Hearings 05/18/2021
Protecting Kids Online: Internet Privacy and Manipulative Marketing
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security, will convene a hearing titled, “Protecting Kids Online: Internet Privacy and Manipulative Marketing” at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, May 18, 2021. Skyrocketing screen time has deepened parents’ concerns about their children’s online safety, privacy, and wellbeing. Apps such as TikTok, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram draw younger audiences onto their platforms raising concerns about how their data is being used and how marketers are targeting them. This hearing will examine the issues posed by Big Tech, child-oriented apps, and manipulative influencer marketing. The hearing will also explore needed improvements to our laws and enforcement, such as the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act, child safety codes, and the Federal Trade Commission’s advertising disclosure guidance.
Hearings 05/12/2021
Executive Session
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 12, 2021, to consider the following measures and nominations:
Hearings 05/11/2021
Freight Mobility: Strengthening America’s Supply Chains and Competitiveness
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports, will convene a hearing titled, “Freight Mobility: Strengthening America’s Supply Chains and Competitiveness,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 11, 2021. The hearing will address the current challenges facing the freight industry, and the ways in which Congress and stakeholders can enhance our nation’s transportation infrastructure and supply chains to ensure the continued competitiveness of American freight movement. Witnesses will also have the opportunity to discuss other opportunities to strengthen U.S. freight and transportation policy.
Hearings 04/29/2021
Nomination Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nomination hearing at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 29, 2021 to consider the presidential nomination of Dr. Eric Lander to be Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP).
Hearings 04/28/2021
Executive Session
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 28, 2021 to consider the following measures:
Hearings 04/27/2021
Driving Innovation: the Future of Automotive Mobility, Safety, and Technology
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports, will convene a hearing titled, “Driving Innovation: the Future of Automotive Mobility, Safety, and Technology,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 27, 2021. The hearing will address how automotive innovation will influence the future of vehicle safety, mobility, and technology in a global economy. Witnesses will have the opportunity to discuss the state of automotive innovation and current challenges and opportunities, and the ways in which Congress and stakeholders can help the automotive industry provide equitable access to world-class safety and mobility for all Americans.
Hearings 04/27/2021
Curbing COVID Cons: Warning Consumers about Pandemic Frauds, Scams, and Swindles
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Data Security, will convene a hearing titled, “Curbing COVID Cons: Warning Consumers about Pandemic Frauds, Scams, and Swindles,” at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 27, 2021. The hearing will examine scams related to COVID-19 and Federal Trade Commission (“FTC”) actions to stop these scams. In particular, the hearing will raise awareness of ongoing schemes such as identity theft, fake personal protective equipment, fraudulent vaccination claims, and robocalls; the FTC’s education efforts around these scams; the FTC’s use of its new civil penalty authority for COVID-related scams; and the FTC’s threatened “13(b)” consumer redress authority.
Hearings 04/21/2021
Prepare for Takeoff: America’s Safe Return to Air Travel
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ), the Chair of the Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation will convene a hearing titled, “Prepare for Takeoff: America’s Safe Return to Air Travel,” at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 21, 2021. The hearing will examine the safe return to air travel in the United States as many Americans are getting vaccinated and testing availability has increased in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Assessing the aviation industry’s rebound, the impact of federal COVID-19 relief programs for commercial aviation and the appropriate health and safety precautions as Americans return to air travel in larger numbers will be considered.
Hearings 04/21/2021
Nomination Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), the Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nomination hearing at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 to consider the presidential nominations of Bill Nelson to be National Aeronautics and Space Administration Administrator, Lina Khan to be a Commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission, and Leslie Kiernan to be General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Commerce.
Hearings 04/20/2021
Strengthening the Federal Trade Commission’s Authority to Protect Consumers
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Strengthening the Federal Trade Commission’s Authority to Protect Consumers,” at 10:00 a.m. on April 20, 2021. The hearing will address the Commission’s endangered consumer redress authority; the Commission’s efforts to fight fraud during the pandemic, including its new first-time civil penalty authority for COVID-related scams; and the Commission’s tools and capabilities in the information age, including $30.4 million in funding for consumer protection matters that Congress provided in the American Rescue Plan Act.
Hearings 04/15/2021
Shot of Truth: Communicating Trusted Vaccine Information
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Chair of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, will convene a hearing titled, “Shot of Truth: Communicating Trusted Vaccine Information,” at 10 a.m. on Thursday, April 15, 2021. The hearing will examine the ways in which media is disseminating vaccine safety and COVID-health related information to encourage Americans, particularly those in rural areas and in communities of color, to get vaccinated. It also will explore what more can be done to encourage media outlets, including television, radio, and online platforms, to promote reliable and trustworthy vaccine information.
Hearings 04/14/2021
Legislative Hearing on the Endless Frontier Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Legislative Hearing on the Endless Frontier Act,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 14, 2021. The hearing will address potential actions to strengthen the U.S. innovation ecosystem, including increasing National Science Foundation research funding; growing and diversifying the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) pipeline; improving technology transfer; and investing in regional innovation centers. Witnesses will also have the opportunity to discuss other opportunities to strengthen U.S. innovation policy.
Hearings 04/13/2021
The State of Travel and Tourism During COVID
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Chair of the Subcommittee on Tourism, Trade, and Export Promotion, will convene a hearing titled, “The State of Travel and Tourism During COVID,” at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 13, 2021. This hearing will examine the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the travel and tourism industry, with a particular focus on the hotels, conventions, and the broader hospitality industry. It will also review regional impacts of COVID on tourism-heavy economies and those communities disproportionately affected by the pandemic's resulting economic downturn. Witnesses will have the opportunity to provide their insights surrounding these critical issues, as well as discuss solutions for supporting and revitalizing the travel and tourism industry moving forward.
Hearings 03/24/2021
Executive Session
The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold an executive session on Wednesday, March 24, 2021 to consider the agenda below. Directly following the executive session, the committee will hold a full hearing titled, “Driving the Road to Recovery: Rebuilding America’s Transportation Infrastructure.” This hearing will examine surface transportation infrastructure needs across the country, including freight, rail, highway, and port infrastructure, and the impact of those needs on surface transportation reauthorization. A panel of expert witnesses will discuss the current challenges posed by our transportation infrastructure at the local, state, and federal level, and how federal action improve our nation’s transportation systems and boost our economy.
Hearings 03/17/2021
Recent Federal Actions to Expand Broadband: Are We Making Progress?
U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled “Recent Federal Actions to Expand Broadband: Are We Making Progress?” at 10:00 am on Wednesday, March 17, 2021. The hearing will review recent federal actions to expand broadband coverage, including the Federal Communications Commission’s actions on the Rural Digital Opportunity Fund (RDOF), the Re-Connect program, and moves to enhance federal coordination among these existing programs. It also will consider the measures directed at broadband expansion adopted by Congress in response to the pandemic, like the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) broadband grant programs for Tribes, unserved areas, and minority-serving institutions. Witnesses will have the opportunity to discuss the effectiveness of these programs in delivering connectivity to unserved and underserved Americans throughout the country.
Hearings 03/10/2021
Nomination Hearing
U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nomination hearing on Wednesday, March 10, 2021 to consider the presidential nomination of Don Graves to be Deputy Secretary of the United States Department of Commerce.
Hearings 03/3/2021
Nomination Hearing
U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), chair of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nomination hearing on Wednesday, March 3, 2021 to consider the presidential nomination of Polly Trottenberg to be Deputy Secretary of the United States Department of Transportation.
Hearings 02/25/2021
Executive Session
The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold an executive session on Thursday, February 25, 2021, at 10:00 am in Dirksen Senate Office Building 106 to consider the following agenda:
Hearings 02/11/2021
Executive Session
The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold an executive session on Thursday, February 11, 2021, at 10:00 am in Dirksen Senate Office Building G50 to consider the following agenda:
Hearings 02/3/2021
Executive Session
The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold an executive session on Wednesday, February 3, 2021, at 9:30 a.m. in Russell Senate Office Building 325 to consider the following measures and nomination:
Hearings 01/27/2021
Executive Session
The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold an executive session on Wednesday, January 27, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. in Russell Senate Office Building 325 to consider the following nomination:
Hearings 01/26/2021
Nomination Hearing
The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold a hearing on Tuesday, January 26, 2021 to consider the presidential nomination of Gina Raimondo to be Secretary of the United States Department of Commerce.
Hearings 01/21/2021
Nomination Hearing
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nomination hearing on Thursday, January 21, 2021 to consider the presidential nomination of Peter Buttigieg to be Secretary of the United States Department of Transportation.
Hearings 12/15/2020
Betting on the Rest: Expanding American Entrepreneurship Outside Traditional Hubs
U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled, “Betting on the Rest: Expanding American Entrepreneurship Outside Traditional Hubs,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 15, 2020. The hearing will examine the venture capital gap that exists between different geographic regions in America, how COVID-19 could redefine this gap, and what the private and public sectors are doing to address it.
Hearings 12/15/2020
Examining the Impact of COVID-19 on the Live Event Entertainment Industry
U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., chairman of the Subcommittee on Manufacturing, Trade, and Consumer Protection, will convene a hearing titled, “Examining the Impact of COVID-19 on the Live Event Entertainment Industry,” at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 15, 2020. The hearing will examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the live event entertainment industry and the challenges faced by artists and venues, as well as supporting industries such as lighting and transportation. The hearing will also examine proposals for legislative relief, unemployment compensation, and healthcare subsidies.
Hearings 12/10/2020
The Logistics of Transporting a COVID-19 Vaccine
U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, will convene a hearing titled, “The Logistics of Transporting a COVID-19 Vaccine,” at 9:30 a.m. on Thursday, December 10, 2020. The hearing will examine transportation and logistics plans for ensuring COVID-19 vaccines are delivered across the country. Witnesses will have the opportunity to discuss supply chain issues within the transportation network and ongoing coordination in preparation to distribute the vaccine, as well as the near and long-term outlooks for vaccine distribution.
Hearings 12/9/2020
The Invalidation of the EU-US Privacy Shield and the Future of Transatlantic Data Flows
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “The Invalidation of the EU-US Privacy Shield and the Future of Transatlantic Data Flows,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 9. The hearing will explore policy issues that led to the European Court of Justice’s (ECJ) invalidation of the EU-US Privacy Shield Framework, one of the key mechanisms for allowing the transfer of personal data from the European Union to the United States.
Hearings 12/8/2020
U.S. Coast Guard Capabilities for Safeguarding National Interests and Promoting Economic Security in the Arctic
U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, chairman of the Subcommittee on Security, will convene a hearing titled, “U.S. Coast Guard Capabilities for Safeguarding National Interests and Promoting Economic Security in the Arctic,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 8, 2020. The hearing will examine how the United States Coast Guard (USCG) 2019 Arctic Strategic Outlook is being resourced through acquisition plans, training exercises, and infrastructure investments, and the importance of USCG presence in the Arctic as commercial sea traffic increases. The hearing will also address the security implications of Chinese and Russian interests in the Arctic and the current state of the USCG’s icebreaking capacity.
Hearings 12/2/2020
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, December 2, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. in Russell Senate Office Building 325 to consider the following nominations:
Hearings 11/18/2020
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, November 18, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. in Dirksen Senate Office Building G50 to consider the following measures:
Hearings 11/17/2020
Examining the American Manufacturing Industry’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic
U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., chairman of the Subcommittee on Manufacturing, Trade, and Consumer Protection, will convene a hearing titled, “Examining the American Manufacturing Industry’s Response to the COVID-19 Pandemic,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 17, 2020.
Hearings 11/10/2020
Nominations Hearing
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nominations hearing at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10, 2020. The hearing will consider presidential nominations to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Department of Commerce, and Federal Communications Commission.
Hearings 10/28/2020
Does Section 230’s Sweeping Immunity Enable Big Tech Bad Behavior?
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Does Section 230’s Sweeping Immunity Enable Big Tech Bad Behavior?,”at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 28. The hearing will examine whether Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act has outlived its usefulness in today’s digital age. It will also examine legislative proposals to modernize the decades-old law, increase transparency and accountability among big technology companies for their content moderation practices, and explore the impact of large ad-tech platforms on local journalism and consumer privacy. The hearing will provide an opportunity to discuss the unintended consequences of Section 230’s liability shield and how best to preserve the internet as a forum for open discourse.
Hearings 10/21/2020
Passenger and Freight Rail: The Current Status of the Rail Network and the Track Ahead
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Passenger and Freight Rail: The Current Status of the Rail Network and the Track Ahead,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 21. The hearing will examine the current state of the passenger and freight rail network, including impacts of COVID-19 and legislative considerations for surface transportation reauthorization.
Hearings 10/1/2020
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Thursday, October 1, 2020, at 10:00 a.m. in Dirksen Senate Office Building 106 to consider the following measures:
Hearings 09/30/2020
NASA Missions and Programs: Update and Future Plans
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “NASA Missions and Programs: Update and Future Plans,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 30, 2020. This hearing will focus on the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) progress on major missions, including the Artemis Program. The hearing will also provide an opportunity to discuss mission challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and how the agency is adapting to meet those challenges.
Hearings 09/24/2020
An Evaluation of FirstNet’s Progress
U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled, “An Evaluation of FirstNet’s Progress,” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, September 24, 2020. The hearing will examine FirstNet and AT&T’s progress on building a nationwide public safety broadband network. The hearing will also review the Government Accountability Office’s most recent oversight report on FirstNet that was released in January 2020.
Hearings 09/23/2020
Revisiting the Need for Federal Data Privacy Legislation
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Revisiting the Need for Federal Data Privacy Legislation,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 23, 2020. This hearing will examine the current state of consumer data privacy and legislative efforts to provide baseline data protections for all Americans. The hearing will also examine lessons learned from the implementation of state privacy laws in the U.S. and the E.U. General Data Protection Regulation, as well as how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected data privacy.
Hearings 09/16/2020
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, September 16, 2020 at 9.45 a.m. in Russell Senate Office Building 325 to consider the following legislative measures and nominations:
Hearings 08/6/2020
Nominations Hearing
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nominations hearing at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 6, 2020. The hearing will consider presidential nominations to the Department of Transportation, Surface Transportation Board, and Amtrak Board of Directors.
Hearings 08/5/2020
Oversight of the Federal Trade Commission
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Oversight of the Federal Trade Commission,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 5, 2020. The hearing will provide members an opportunity to examine policy issues before the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and review the agency’s ongoing activities and proceedings.
Hearings 07/30/2020
The China Challenge: Realignment of U.S. Economic Policies to Build Resiliency and Competitiveness
U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, chairman of the Subcommittee on Security, will convene a hearing titled, “The China Challenge: Realignment of U.S. Economic Policies to Build Resiliency and Competitiveness,” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 30, 2020. The hearing will examine topics related to the Chinese Communist Party's unfair trade practices, intellectual property theft, and market manipulation and their harmful impact on U.S. global economic competitiveness.
Hearings 07/29/2020
Building a Stronger and More Resilient Seafood Sector
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Building a Stronger and More Resilient Seafood Sector,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2020. This hearing will examine the national and regional impacts of COVID-19 on the seafood industry and the effects of the fish disaster funding provided in the CARES Act. Witnesses will have the opportunity to discuss the work that needs to be done to sustain and restore a more resilient U.S. seafood sector.
Hearings 07/28/2020
The PACT Act and Section 230: The Impact of the Law that Helped Create the Internet and an Examination of Proposed Reforms for Today’s Online World
U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled, “The PACT Act and Section 230: The Impact of the Law that Helped Create the Internet and an Examination of Proposed Reforms for Today’s Online World,” at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 28, 2020.
Hearings 07/23/2020
The State of U.S. Spectrum Policy
U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled, “The State of U.S. Spectrum Policy,” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23, 2020. The hearing will examine the Federal Communications Commission’s and National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s role in spectrum management and policymaking. Witnesses will have the opportunity to discuss how the increased demand and competition for licensed and unlicensed spectrum resources have impacted spectrum policies in the United States.
Hearings 07/22/2020
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, July 22, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. in Dirksen Senate Office Building G50 to consider the following legislative measures and nominations:
Hearings 07/21/2020
Protecting Americans from COVID-19 Scams
U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., chairman of the Subcommittee on Manufacturing, Trade, and Consumer Protection, will convene a hearing titled, “Protecting Americans from COVID-19 Scams,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, July 21, 2020. The hearing will examine the rise of scams that are occurring during the COVID-19 pandemic. Witnesses will have the opportunity to discuss ways businesses and federal and state governments are combatting COVID-19 related scams and what more can be done to protect the public.
Hearings 07/1/2020
Exploring a Compensation Framework for Intercollegiate Athletes
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Exploring a Compensation Framework for Intercollegiate Athletes,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 1, 2020. This hearing will examine the National Collegiate Athletic Association Board of Governors’ recent report on student-athlete compensation and the modernization of rules related to name, image, and likeness (NIL) commercialization. Witnesses will have the opportunity to discuss topics regarding commercial use of student-athletes’ NIL while preserving the integrity of collegiate institutions and amateurism in college sports.
Hearings 06/30/2020
Safety on Our Roads: Overview of Traffic Safety and NHTSA Grant Programs
U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, will convene a hearing titled, “Safety on Our Roads: Overview of Traffic Safety and NHTSA Grant Programs,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2020. The hearing will examine the implementation of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) highway safety grant programs, as well as key highway traffic safety issues.
Hearings 06/24/2020
Oversight of the Federal Communications Commission
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Oversight of the Federal Communications Commission,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2020. The hearing will provide members an opportunity to examine policy issues before the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and review the agency’s ongoing activities and proceedings.
Hearings 06/17/2020
Examining the Federal Aviation Administration’s Oversight of Aircraft Certification
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Examining the Federal Aviation Administration’s Oversight of Aircraft Certification,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 17, 2020. The hearing will provide an opportunity to review issues associated with the design, development, certification, and operation of the Boeing 737 MAX following two international accidents in the past two years. The hearing will also consider potential opportunities to reform the certification process for transport-category aircraft.
Hearings 06/16/2020
Nominations Hearing
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nominations hearing on Tuesday, June 16, 2020 at 2:30 p.m. The hearing will consider presidential nominations to the Department of Transportation, Department of Commerce, Consumer Product Safety Commission, and the Federal Communications Commission.
Hearings 06/3/2020
The State of Transportation and Critical Infrastructure: Examining the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “The State of Transportation and Critical Infrastructure: Examining the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic,” at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 3, 2020. The hearing will examine the impact of COVID-19 on surface transportation and the supply chain. Witnesses will discuss how the surface transportation stakeholders have responded to the pandemic and how they have continued to provide critical services during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Hearings 05/20/2020
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, May 20, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. in Dirksen Senate Office Building G50 to consider the following legislative measures, nominations, and Coast Guard promotions:
Hearings 05/13/2020
The State of Broadband Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “The State of Broadband Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 13, 2020. The hearing will examine the ongoing initiatives led by the Federal Communications Commission to maintain and expand high-speed and reliable broadband connections to all Americans during this national public health emergency. The hearing will also examine the impact of funds provided through the CARES Act to support broadband initiatives at the federal, state, and local levels, and legislative proposals focused on addressing the digital divide during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Hearings 05/6/2020
The State of the Aviation Industry: Examining the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “The State of the Aviation Industry: Examining the Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic,” at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, May 6, 2020. Witnesses will provide an update on the current status of the aviation industry and address challenges resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The hearing will also examine the implementation of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.
Hearings 04/9/2020
Enlisting Big Data in the Fight Against Coronavirus
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today announced a paper hearing titled, “Enlisting Big Data in the Fight Against Coronavirus,” on Thursday, April 9, 2020, beginning at 10:00 a.m. The committee and witnesses will submit written statements, questions, and answers to examine recent uses of aggregate and anonymized consumer data to identify potential hotspots of coronavirus transmission and to help accelerate the development of treatments. The committee will also examine how consumers’ privacy rights are being protected and what the U.S. government plans to do with COVID-related data collected at the end of this national emergency.
Hearings 03/11/2020
Nominations Hearing
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nominations hearing on Wednesday, March 11, 2020, which will immediately follow an executive session at 10:00 a.m. The hearing will consider presidential nominations to the Department of Transportation, Department of Commerce, and the Federal Communications Commission.
Hearings 03/11/2020
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, March 11, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. in Russell Senate Office Building 253 to consider the following legislative measures and Coast Guard promotions:
Hearings 03/4/2020
From SARS to Coronavirus: Examining the Role of Global Aviation in Containing the Spread of Infectious Disease
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation and Space, will convene a hearing titled, “From SARS to Coronavirus: Examining the Role of Global Aviation in Containing the Spread of Infectious Disease,” at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2020.
Hearings 03/4/2020
5G Supply Chain Security: Threats and Solutions
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “5G Supply Chain Security: Threats and Solutions,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 4, 2020. The hearing will examine the security and integrity of the telecommunications supply chain and efforts to secure networks from exploitation in the transition to 5G. The hearing will also examine the federal government’s role in mitigating risks to telecommunications equipment and services in the U.S. and abroad.
Hearings 03/3/2020
Securing U.S. Leadership in the Bioeconomy
U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., chairman of the Subcommittee on Science, Oceans, Fisheries, and Weather, will convene a hearing titled, “Securing U.S. Leadership in the Bioeconomy,” at 9:15 a.m. on Tuesday, March 3, 2020. The hearing will examine the bioeconomy, the federal government’s role in the bioeconomy, and the potential risks from such research. Witnesses will also discuss the necessary policies and practices for the advancement of biotechnology.
Hearings 02/24/2020
Promoting Safe Skies through Scanning and Screening: Oversight of Air Cargo Security
U.S. Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass., ranking member of the Subcommittee on Security, will convene a field hearing titled, “Promoting Safe Skies through Scanning and Screening: Oversight of Air Cargo Security,” at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, February 24, 2020. The hearing will examine the oversight of certified cargo screening facilities, screening technology, the efficiency of the global supply chain, and other air cargo security topics at Boston Logan International Airport.
Hearings 02/12/2020
Space Missions of Global Importance: Planetary Defense, Space Weather Protection, and Space Situational Awareness
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Space Missions of Global Importance: Planetary Defense, Space Weather Protection, and Space Situational Awareness,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 12, 2020. The hearing will focus on U.S. leadership in space missions vital to the global economy and the protection of human health and life on Earth. Witnesses will also discuss policies, programs, and research that are important for planetary defense, space weather protection, and space situational awareness.
Hearings 02/11/2020
Name, Image, and Likeness: The State of Intercollegiate Athlete Compensation
The hearing will examine ongoing issues that surround compensating collegiate athletes for the use of their name, image, and likeness. Witnesses will also discuss the use of third party agents, current definitions of amateurism, and allowable incentives made available to today’s college athletes.
Hearings 02/5/2020
Athlete Safety and the Integrity of U.S. Sport
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Athlete Safety and the Integrity of U.S. Sport,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 5, 2020. The hearing will examine issues under the committee’s sports jurisdiction, including protecting the health and safety of American athletes and enhancing the integrity of U.S. sports.
Hearings 02/4/2020
Keep on Truckin’: Stakeholder Perspectives on Trucking in America
U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, will convene a hearing titled, “Keep on Truckin’: Stakeholder Perspectives on Trucking in America,” at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, February 4, 2020. The hearing will examine the state of the trucking industry in the United States, truck safety issues, and the regulatory environment from the stakeholder perspective.
Hearings 01/28/2020
Building Infrastructure in America: Overview of the Build America Bureau and the U.S. Department of Transportation Rural Transportation Initiatives
U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, will convene a hearing titled, “Building Infrastructure in America: Overview of the Build America Bureau and the U.S. Department of Transportation Rural Transportation Initiatives,” at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 28, 2020.
Hearings 01/22/2020
The 5G Workforce and Obstacles to Broadband Deployment
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “The 5G Workforce and Obstacles to Broadband Deployment,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 22, 2020. This hearing will examine the skills and training needed among the telecommunications workforce to deploy 5G networks, as well as ongoing efforts within the public and private sectors to address the 5G labor shortage. Witnesses will also discuss regulatory barriers that may impede U.S. leadership in next generation communications technology and efforts to close the digital divide.
Hearings 01/15/2020
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, January 15, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. in Hart Senate Office Building 216 to consider the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) Implementation Act.
Hearings 01/15/2020
Industries of the Future
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Industries of the Future,” immediately following an executive session at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, January 15, 2020. The hearing will examine how the United States can maintain its global economic edge in artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, quantum information science, biotechnology, and developing the next generation of wireless networks and infrastructure.
Hearings 12/12/2019
Expanding Opportunities, Challenges, and Threats in the Arctic: A Focus on the U.S. Coast Guard Arctic Strategic Outlook
U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, chairman of the Subcommittee on Security, will convene a hearing titled, “Expanding Opportunities, Challenges, and Threats in the Arctic: A Focus on the U.S. Coast Guard Arctic Strategic Outlook,” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 12, 2019. The hearing will evaluate the Coast Guard’s presence in the Arctic, the 2019 Coast Guard Strategic Outlook, and the ability to meet existing and future challenges in the region.
Hearings 12/11/2019
Nomination Hearing for Member of National Transportation Safety Board
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nomination hearing on Wednesday, December 11, 2019 to consider the presidential nomination of Thomas Chapman to be a Member of the National Transportation Safety Board. The hearing will immediately follow the executive session in Dirksen Senate Office Building G50.
Hearings 12/11/2019
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, December 11, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. in Dirksen Senate Office Building G50 to consider the following legislative measures.
Hearings 12/5/2019
The Evolution of Next-Generation Technologies: Implementing MOBILE NOW
U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled, “The Evolution of Next-Generation Technologies: Implementing MOBILE NOW,” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, December 5, 2019. The hearing will examine the implementation of several mandates required by the Making Opportunities for Broadband Investment and Limiting Excessive and Needless Obstacles to Wireless Act (MOBILE NOW). Witnesses will discuss MOBILE NOW’s spectrum provisions and the streamlining of broadband infrastructure on federal lands, among other things.
Hearings 12/4/2019
Examining Legislative Proposals to Protect Consumer Data Privacy
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Examining Legislative Proposals to Protect Consumer Data Privacy,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 4, 2019. Members of the committee and witnesses will discuss how legislative proposals intend to provide consumers with more security, transparency, choice, and control over personal information both online and offline. Members will also discuss proposals that provide the Federal Trade Commission with more resources and authority to oversee business data practices in the marketplace.
Hearings 11/20/2019
Highly Automated Vehicles: Federal Perspectives on the Deployment of Safety Technology
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Highly Automated Vehicles: Federal Perspectives on the Deployment of Safety Technology,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 20, 2019.
Hearings 11/13/2019
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, November 13, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. in Dirksen Senate Office Building G50 to consider the following legislative measures and nominations.
Hearings 11/5/2019
Building the Space Workforce of the Future: STEM Engagement for a 21st Century Education
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas., chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation and Space, will convene a hearing titled, “Building the Space Workforce of the Future: STEM Engagement for a 21st Century Education,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 5, 2019. Witnesses will discuss how engaging students in projects with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) helps provide hands-on training, develops the future workforce, and fosters innovation.
Hearings 10/29/2019
Aviation Safety and the Future of Boeing’s 737 MAX
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Aviation Safety and the Future of Boeing’s 737 MAX,” at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 29, 2019. This hearing is intended to examine issues associated with the design, development, certification, and operation of the Boeing 737 MAX following two international accidents in the last year.
Hearings 10/23/2019
The Reauthorization of STELAR
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “The Reauthorization of STELAR,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 23, 2019. This hearing will examine policy considerations for reauthorizing the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act (STELAR) before the law expires at the end of the year and how to ensure Americans living beyond the reach of a broadcast signal maintain access to local programming. In addition, witnesses will discuss the effectiveness of STELAR’s good faith requirement and other targeted video marketplace reforms Congress should consider in the next STELAR reauthorization.
Hearings 10/22/2019
Research and Innovation: Ensuring America's Economic and Strategic Leadership
U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., chairman of the Subcommittee on Science, Oceans, Fisheries, and Weather, will convene a hearing titled, “Research and Innovation: Ensuring America's Economic and Strategic Leadership,” at 2:15 p.m. on Tuesday, October 22, 2019. This hearing will examine the role that research and innovation play in ensuring leadership in the U.S. and world economy.
Hearings 10/17/2019
Improving Security at America’s Airports: Stakeholder Perspectives
U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska., chairman of the Subcommittee on Security, will convene a hearing titled, “Improving Security at America’s Airports: Stakeholder Perspectives,” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 17, 2019. This hearing will examine stakeholder perspectives on ways the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) can advance aviation security. The witnesses will share their views on TSA’s implementation of aviation security provisions of the TSA Modernization Act and other efforts to advance aviation security to better serve the traveling public.
Hearings 10/16/2019
Feeding America: Making Sustainable Offshore Aquaculture a Reality
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Feeding America: Making Sustainable Offshore Aquaculture a Reality,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 16, 2019. This hearing will examine opportunities and barriers to expanding sustainable aquaculture in the U.S. Witnesses will discuss the environmental, economic, and social realities of open ocean aquaculture, and the need for a streamlined and predictable policy framework for advancing the development of offshore aquaculture.
Hearings 09/25/2019
Fishery Failures: Improving the Disaster Declaration and Relief Process
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Fishery Failures: Improving the Disaster Declaration and Relief Process,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 25, 2019. This hearing will examine federal and stakeholder perspectives on the fishery disaster process and how those disasters impact local communities. The hearing will also examine recent and pending disaster declarations and how the process for both declaration and relief could be improved.
Hearings 09/24/2019
Improving Air Traffic Control for the American People: Examining the Current System
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation and Space, will convene a hearing titled, “Improving Air Traffic Control for the American People: Examining the Current System,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, September 24, 2019. The hearing will examine the current state of the United States’ air traffic control (ATC) system. Witnesses will discuss challenges and highlight possible improvements to the efficiency and safety of the ATC system.
Hearings 09/18/2019
Mass Violence, Extremism, and Digital Responsibility
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Mass Violence, Extremism, and Digital Responsibility,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 18, 2019. In light of recent incidents of mass violence, this hearing will examine the proliferation of extremism online and explore the effectiveness of industry efforts to remove violent content from online platforms. Witnesses will discuss how technology companies are working with law enforcement when violent or threatening content is identified and the processes for removal of such content.
Hearings 09/11/2019
Protecting the Nation’s Transportation Systems: Oversight of the Transportation Security Administration
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Protecting the Nation’s Transportation Systems: Oversight of the Transportation Security Administration,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 11, 2019. This hearing will examine issues related to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and provide oversight on TSA’s efforts to enhance transportation security.
Hearings 09/5/2019
Transforming Rural America: A New Era of Innovation
Hearings 07/31/2019
Next Steps for Positive Train Control Implementation
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Next Steps for Positive Train Control Implementation,” at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 31, 2019. This hearing will focus on the implementation of positive train control (PTC) and anticipated compliance with the December 31, 2020 deadline. Witnesses will discuss the current status of PTC implementation and any challenges railroads may face by the final deadline.
Hearings 07/31/2019
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. in Hart Senate Office Building 216 to consider the following legislative measures.
Hearings 07/24/2019
Nominations Hearing
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nominations hearing on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 to consider presidential nominations to the National Transportation Safety Board, Federal Maritime Commission, Amtrak Board of Directors, Office of Science and Technology Policy, and Department of Commerce. The hearing will immediately follow the executive session in Hart Senate Office Building 216.
Hearings 07/24/2019
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, July 24, 2019 at 10:30 a.m. in Hart Senate Office Building 216 to consider the following legislative measures and nominations.
Hearings 07/23/2019
America’s Waterfronts: Addressing Economic, Recreational, and Environmental Challenges
U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., chairman of the Subcommittee on Science, Oceans, Fisheries, and Weather, will convene a hearing titled, “America’s Waterfronts: Addressing Economic, Recreational, and Environmental Challenges,” at 2:15 p.m. on Tuesday, July 23, 2019. This hearing will focus on the current state of our working waterfronts, how we can balance stakeholder needs, and maximize the benefits from our water and coastal resources. Witnesses will also discuss the current challenges, highlight management and development successes, and provide suggestions on how our waterfronts could be further improved.
Hearings 07/17/2019
Moon to Mars: NASA’s Plans for Deep Space Exploration
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Moon to Mars: NASA’s Plans for Deep Space Exploration,” at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, July 17, 2019. This hearing will examine the future of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) human spaceflight program. Witnesses will discuss NASA’s plans for the Artemis Program and returning U.S. astronauts to the lunar surface by 2024.
Hearings 07/10/2019
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, July 10, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. in Hart Senate Office Building 216 to consider the following legislative measures and nominations.
Hearings 07/9/2019
NASA Exploration Plans: Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Going
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation and Space, will convene a hearing titled, “NASA Exploration Plans: Where We’ve Been and Where We’re Going” at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 9, 2019. The purpose of this hearing is to honor the upcoming 50th anniversary of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s (NASA) Apollo 11 mission and the United States landing the first man on the moon. The hearing will examine NASA’s plans for future human spaceflight missions.
Hearings 06/26/2019
Amtrak: Next Steps for Passenger Rail
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Amtrak: Next Steps for Passenger Rail,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 26, 2019. The hearing will examine implementation of the rail title of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, which expires at the end of fiscal year 2020, and priorities for reauthorization of Amtrak.
Hearings 06/25/2019
Examining Technological Innovations in Transportation
U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, will convene a hearing titled, “Examining Technological Innovations in Transportation,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 25, 2019. The hearing will examine the adoption of technology by transportation stakeholders and the effects of technology on the surface transportation network. Witnesses will discuss new technologies in the transportation sector, associated impacts, and the benefits and challenges to deploying such technologies.
Hearings 06/25/2019
Optimizing for Engagement: Understanding the Use of Persuasive Technology on Internet Platforms
U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled, “Optimizing for Engagement: Understanding the Use of Persuasive Technology on Internet Platforms,” at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 25, 2019. The hearing will examine how algorithmic decision-making and machine learning on internet platforms might be influencing the public. Witnesses will provide insight on ways technology companies use algorithms and machine learning to influence outcomes, and whether algorithm transparency or algorithm explanation are appropriate policy responses.
Hearings 06/20/2019
Oversight of the Consumer Product Safety Commission
U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., chairman of the Subcommittee on Manufacturing, Trade, and Consumer Protection, will convene a hearing titled, “Oversight of the Consumer Product Safety Commission,” at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, June 20, 2019. As part of the committee’s oversight of agencies under its jurisdiction, this hearing will examine policy issues before the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The committee will also review the ongoing activities and proceedings at the CPSC.
Hearings 06/19/2019
FAST Act Reauthorization: Transportation and Safety Issues
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “FAST Act Reauthorization: Transportation and Safety Issues,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 19, 2019. The hearing will examine implementation of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, which expires at the end of fiscal year 2020, and priorities for the Department of Transportation as Congress prepares for surface transportation reauthorization.
Hearings 06/18/2019
Drone Security: Enhancing Innovation and Mitigating Supply Chain Risks
U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, chairman of the Subcommittee on Security, will convene a hearing titled, “Drone Security: Enhancing Innovation and Mitigating Supply Chain Risks,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 18, 2019. This hearing will examine security threats and challenges posed by unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), including the status of UAS detection and mitigation technology and capabilities.
Hearings 06/12/2019
Oversight of the Federal Communications Commission
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Oversight of the Federal Communications Commission,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 12, 2019. As part of the Committee’s oversight responsibilities, this hearing will examine policy issues before the Federal Communications Commission and review its ongoing activities and proceedings.
Hearings 06/5/2019
The State of the Television and Video Marketplace
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “The State of the Television and Video Marketplace,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 5, 2019. The hearing will examine how television programming and the delivery of video content have evolved over the past decade.Witnesses will discuss how new entrants in the video marketplace and the development of digital programming and streaming services have impacted consumer viewing habits and preferences.
Hearings 05/16/2019
Atmospheric Science Research and Forecasting Innovation
U.S. Sen. Cory Gardner, R-Colo., chairman of the Subcommittee on Science, Oceans, Fisheries, and Weather, will convene a hearing titled, “Atmospheric Science Research and Forecasting Innovation,” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, May 16, 2019. The hearing will examine the current state of atmospheric and forecast research. Witnesses will provide insight on how to make atmospheric science research more broadly accessible and available. The panel will also provide feedback on the Weather Research and Forecasting Innovation Act of 2017 and the National Integrated Drought Information System Reauthorization Act of 2018.
Hearings 05/15/2019
Nomination Hearing for Administrator of Federal Aviation Administration
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a nominations hearing on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 to consider the presidential nomination of Stephen Dickson to be Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration. The hearing will immediately follow the executive session in Dirksen Senate Office Building G50.
Hearings 05/15/2019
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, May 15, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. in Dirksen Senate Office Building G50 to consider the following legislative measures.
Hearings 05/14/2019
The Emerging Space Environment: Operational, Technical, and Policy Challenges
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation and Space, will convene a hearing titled, “The Emerging Space Environment: Operational, Technical, and Policy Challenges,” at 3:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 14, 2019. The hearing will examine civil-military coordination, cooperation, and related issues within the space domain.
Hearings 05/8/2019
New Entrants in the National Airspace: Policy, Technology, and Security Issues for Congress
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “New Entrants in the National Airspace: Policy, Technology, and Security Issues for Congress,” at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, May 8, 2019. The hearing will examine the current state of our National Airspace System (NAS), the status of integration efforts by the Federal Aviation Administration for new entrants into the NAS, and the policy, technology, and security challenges that remain.
Hearings 05/1/2019
Consumer Perspectives: Policy Principles for a Federal Data Privacy Framework
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Consumer Perspectives: Policy Principles for a Federal Data Privacy Framework,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, May 1, 2019. The hearing will examine consumers’ expectations for data privacy in the Digital Age and how those expectations may vary based on the type of information collected and processed by businesses.
Hearings 04/30/2019
Strengthening the Cybersecurity of the Internet of Things
U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, chairman of the Subcommittee on Security, will convene a hearing titled, “Strengthening the Cybersecurity of the Internet of Things,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 30, 2019. The hearing will examine the security threats and challenges posed by the Internet of Things (IoT), and ways to incentivize building more cybersecurity by design into connected devices and the networks that support them. The hearing will also examine the importance of 5G network security to connected devices and the manner in which the federal government, businesses community, and consumers can promote and support increased IoT cybersecurity.
Hearings 04/11/2019
Illegal Robocalls: Calling All To Stop The Scourge
U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled, “Illegal Robocalls: Calling All To Stop The Scourge,” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 11, 2019. The hearing will examine the Federal Communications Commission’s first ever report on robocalls and review the steps Congress is currently taking to provide consumers relief from illegal robocalls.
Hearings 04/10/2019
Pipeline Safety: Federal Oversight and Stakeholder Perspectives
U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb., chairman of the Subcommittee on Transportation and Safety, will convene a hearing titled, “Pipeline Safety: Federal Oversight and Stakeholder Perspectives,” at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, April 10, 2019. The hearing will examine federal pipeline safety and federal oversight as the Commerce Committee considers reauthorization of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration’s pipeline safety program.
Hearings 04/10/2019
Broadband Mapping: Challenges and Solutions
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Broadband Mapping: Challenges and Solutions,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 10, 2019. The hearing will examine the current state of the nation’s broadband maps, and evaluate the ongoing efforts within the federal government and private sector to collect more accurate broadband coverage data.
Hearings 04/4/2019
Federal Maritime Agencies: Ensuring a Safe, Secure, and Competitive Future
U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, chairman of the Subcommittee on Security, will convene a hearing titled, “Federal Maritime Agencies: Ensuring a Safe, Secure, and Competitive Future,” at 10:15 a.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2019. This hearing will examine the President’s fiscal year 2020 budget request for the U.S. Coast Guard, the Maritime Administration, and the Federal Maritime Commission and the current operational successes and challenges before the agencies.
Hearings 04/3/2019
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session on Wednesday, April 3, 2019 at 9:30 a.m. in Dirksen Senate Office Building G50 to consider the following legislative measures and nominations.
Hearings 03/27/2019
The State of Airline Safety: Federal Oversight of Commercial Aviation
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation and Space, will convene a hearing titled, “The State of Airline Safety: Federal Oversight of Commercial Aviation,” at 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, March 27, 2019. In light of the recent tragedy in Ethiopia and the subsequent grounding of the Boeing 737 Max aircraft, this hearing will examine challenges to the state of commercial aviation safety, including any specific concerns highlighted by recent accidents.
Hearings 03/27/2019
Our Blue Economy: Successes and Opportunities
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “Our Blue Economy: Successes and Opportunities,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 27, 2019. The hearing will examine stakeholder perspectives on marine economic development and the need for federal investments in ocean technologies and fisheries.
Hearings 03/26/2019
Small Business Perspectives on a Federal Data Privacy Framework
U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, R-Kan., chairman of the Subcommittee on Manufacturing, Trade, and Consumer Protection, will convene a hearing titled, “Small Business Perspectives on a Federal Data Privacy Framework,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 26, 2019. The hearing will focus on the data privacy issues that impact small businesses and the unique challenges they face with laws designed for larger companies.
Hearings 03/13/2019
The New Space Race: Ensuring U.S. Global Leadership on the Final Frontier
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “The New Space Race: Ensuring U.S. Global Leadership on the Final Frontier,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 13, 2019. The hearing will discuss the U.S. government’s strategy for maintaining leadership in space, ensuring space industry competitiveness, and addressing challenges to spacefaring preeminence.
Hearings 03/12/2019
The Impact of Broadband Investments in Rural America
U.S. Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, Innovation, and the Internet, will convene a hearing titled, “The Impact of Broadband Investments in Rural America,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 12, 2019. The hearing will focus on the Federal Communications Commission’s order to improve the quality and expand availability of rural broadband. The subcommittee will also discuss opportunities and investments to support carriers in rural America, efforts to prevent overbuilding among federal broadband programs, and the next steps to close the digital divide.
Hearings 03/7/2019
China: Challenges for U.S. Commerce
U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, chairman of the Subcommittee on Security, will convene a hearing titled, “China: Challenges for U.S. Commerce,” at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 7, 2019. The subcommittee hearing will examine the security implications of China's harmful practices in the marketplace, including issues of manufacturing competitiveness, intellectual property challenges, data localization requirements, standards-setting, and cybersecurity threats.
Hearings 03/6/2019
The State of the American Maritime Industry
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “The State of the American Maritime Industry,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 6, 2019. The hearing will focus on the current state of the domestic maritime industry in anticipation of the FY20 budget request and discuss priorities for the Coast Guard and MARAD reauthorization bills.
Hearings 02/27/2019
Policy Principles for a Federal Data Privacy Framework in the United States
Hearings 02/26/2019
Connecting America: Examining Intermodal Connections Across Our Surface Transportation Network
Hearings 02/13/2019
America’s Infrastructure Needs: Keeping Pace with a Growing Economy
Hearings 02/13/2019
Executive Session
Hearings 02/6/2019
Winning the Race to 5G and the Next Era of Technology Innovation in the United States
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene the first full committee hearing of the 116th Congress titled, “Winning the Race to 5G and the Next Era of Technology Innovation in the United States.”
Hearings 02/6/2019
Executive Session
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene an executive session at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, February 6, 2019 in Dirksen G50 to consider the committee budget resolution and subcommittee membership. Click to view live stream.
Hearings 01/16/2019
Executive Session
The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold an executive session on Wednesday, January 16, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. to consider and approve the rules for the committee and to ratify Subcommittees and Subcommittee assignments for the 116th Congress. Click here for live stream.
Hearings 12/6/2018
Preparing for Maritime Transportation in a Changing Arctic
U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), chairman of the Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard, will convene a subcommittee hearing titled “Preparing for Maritime Transportation in a Changing Arctic,” to examine emerging transportation issues in the changing Arctic region.
Hearings 11/27/2018
Oversight of the Federal Trade Commission
Hearings 11/26/2018
Pipeline Safety in the Merrimack Valley: Incident Prevention and Response
Hearings 10/20/2018
The State of Our Salmon
Hearings 10/12/2018
The Race to 5G: A View from the Field
Hearings 10/11/2018
The Future of the Fleets: Coast Guard and NOAA Ship Recapitalization
Hearings 10/10/2018
Consumer Data Privacy: Examining Lessons From the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation and the California Consumer Privacy Act
Hearings 10/4/2018
Broadband: Opportunities and Challenges in Rural America
Hearings 10/3/2018
Protecting U.S. Amateur Athletes: Examining Abuse Prevention Efforts Across the Olympic Movement
Hearings 10/3/2018
Implementation of Positive Train Control
Hearings 09/26/2018
Global Space Race: Ensuring the United States Remains the Leader in Space
Hearings 09/26/2018
Examining Safeguards for Consumer Data Privacy
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled “Examining Safeguards for Consumer Data Privacy,” to examine privacy policies of top technology and communications firms, review the current state of consumer data privacy, and offer members the opportunity to discuss possible approaches to safeguarding privacy more effectively. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 09/18/2018
Fish Fights: An Examination of Conflicts Over Ocean Resources
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Hearings 09/13/2018
Transportation of Tomorrow: Emerging Technologies That Will Move America
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing to examine emerging technologies across the transportation sector. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 09/5/2018
Keeping Our Skies Secure: Oversight of the Transportation Security Administration
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing entitled, “Keeping Our Skies Secure: Oversight of the Transportation Security Administration." Click to view livestream.
Hearings 09/5/2018
Executive Session
The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold an executive session on Wednesday, September 5, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. to consider the following legislative measures and nominations. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 08/28/2018
Harmful Algal Blooms: The Impact on Our Nation’s Waters
U.S. Sen. Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), chairman of the Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard, will convene a hearing entitled, “Harmful Algal Blooms: The Impact on Our Nation’s Waters,” at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, August 28, 2018.
Hearings 08/23/2018
Nominations Hearing
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing at 10: 15 a.m. on Thursday, August 23, 2018, to consider three presidential nominees. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 08/20/2018
Pipeline Safety in the Great Lakes: Incident Prevention and Response Efforts at the Straits of Mackinac
Hearings 08/16/2018
Oversight of the Federal Communications Commission
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing to examine policy issues before the Commission and review the FCC’s ongoing duties and activities. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 08/1/2018
The Search for Life: Utilizing Science to Explore our Solar System and Make New Discoveries
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Hearings 08/1/2018
Executive Session
The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold an executive session on Wednesday, August 1, 2018 at 9:45 a.m. to consider the following legislative measure and nominations. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 07/31/2018
The Internet and Digital Communications: Examining the Impact of Global Internet Governance
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) will convene a hearing titled “The Internet and Digital Communications: Examining the Impact of Global Internet Governance,” at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 31, 2018. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 07/26/2018
Nominations Hearing
The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 26, 2018, to consider two presidential nominees. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 07/25/2018
Destination Mars – Putting American Boots on the Surface of the Red Planet
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), chairman of the Subcommittee on Space, Science, and Competitiveness, will convene a hearing titled “Destination Mars – Putting American Boots on the Surface of the Red Planet” at 2:15 p.m. on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 07/25/2018
The Race to 5G: Exploring Spectrum Needs to Maintain U.S. Global Leadership
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing titled, “The Race to 5G: Exploring Spectrum Needs to Maintain U.S. Global Leadership,” at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, July 25, 2018. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 07/24/2018
Strengthening and Empowering U.S. Amateur Athletes: Moving Forward with Solutions
U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance, and Data Security, will convene a hearing titled “Strengthening and Empowering U.S. Amateur Athletes: Moving Forward with Solutions” at 2:30 pm on Tuesday, July 24, 2018. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 07/24/2018
NOAA’s Blue Economy Initiative: Supporting Commerce in American Oceans and Great Lakes
Hearings 07/18/2018
SHARKS!
Hearings 07/11/2018
Complex Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities: Lessons Learned from Spectre and Meltdown
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) will convene a hearing to review cybersecurity issues raised in response to the Spectre and Meltdown vulnerabilities. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 06/27/2018
Executive Session
The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold an executive session on Wednesday, June 27, at 10:00 a.m. to consider the following legislative measures and nominations.
Hearings 06/20/2018
Nominations Hearing
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 20, 2018, to consider two presidential nominees. Click to view livestream.
Hearings 06/19/2018
Cambridge Analytica and Other Facebook Partners: Examining Data Privacy Risks
Hearings 06/13/2018
Oversight of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, will convene a hearing entitled, “Oversight of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration,” at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 13, 2018. Click to view livestream.