Press Releases

Press Releases 07/17/2013
Rockefeller Welcomes Senator Markey to Commerce Committee
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement welcoming Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Press Releases 07/10/2013
Rockefeller Says Pilot Flight Hours Rule Builds on his Commitment to Maintaining Safety of the Nation's Airways
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a rule that requires pilots have six times as many hours of flight experience as currently mandated. Chairman Rockefeller pushed to include the 1,500 hour requirement for first officers in the 2010 FAA Safety Law (P.L. 111-216).
Press Releases 07/6/2013
Statement from Chairman Rockefeller on Asiana Flight #214 Crash at San Francisco International Airport
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released the following statement today on the crash of Asiana flight #214 at the San Francisco International Airport. The Commerce Committee has specific oversight responsibility for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). "My thoughts are with the passengers and crew of Asiana flight #214, and the first responders on the scene in San Francisco. I am in contact with the NTSB and the FAA as they examine this incident, and I will continue to monitor the situation closely as it unfolds." ###
Press Releases 06/28/2013
Rockefeller Commends Acting Chairwoman Clyburn on Important Step to Strengthen E-Rate
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller today released the following statement on Acting Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairwoman Mignon Clyburn’s announcement that she intends to circulate a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) that would strengthen the E-Rate program to give students and teachers access to high-speed Internet in schools and libraries. Rockefeller first called on the FCC to update E-Rate at an FCC oversight hearing this March, where he received public commitments from all five FCC Commissioners to work with him to strengthen this already successful program. Rockefeller also received Mr. Tom Wheeler’s public commitment to update E-Rate at his nomination hearing this month.
Press Releases 06/27/2013
Rockefeller Praises Foxx's Superb Qualifications as DOT Secretary after Unanimous Confirmation Vote
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller released the following statement today after the Senate voted 100-0 to confirm Mayor Anthony Foxx as Secretary of Transportation. Earlier today, Rockefeller spoke on the Senate floor about Mayor Foxx’s experience and skills that will make him a highly effective Secretary.
Press Releases 06/26/2013
Rockefeller Says Stronger Forensic Standards Necessary to Prevent Wrongful Convictions
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today gave an opening statement at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing titled, "From the Lab Bench to the Courtroom: Advancing the Science and Standards of Forensics." Below are his prepared remarks.
Press Releases 06/26/2013
Thune Forensics Hearing Opening Statement
Press Releases 06/18/2013
Thune Statement on Wheeler Confirmation Hearing
Press Releases 06/6/2013
Thune Statement on Scheduled Nomination Markup
Press Releases 06/4/2013
Thune Statement on State of Wireless Hearing
Press Releases 05/23/2013
Thune Statement on Secretary of Commerce Confirmation Hearing
Press Releases 05/22/2013
Thune Statement on Secretary of Transportation Confirmation Hearing
Press Releases 05/15/2013
Thune Statement on Advanced Vehicle Technology
Press Releases 05/15/2013
Rockefeller Highlights Safety Benefits of Advanced Technologies in Vehicles
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today gave opening remarks at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing titled "The Road Ahead: Advanced Vehicle Technology and Its Implications." Below are his prepared remarks:
Press Releases 05/10/2013
Rockefeller Glad Administration Used Authority to Keep Contract Towers Open
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation announced it will use the authority provided by Congress in the Reduce Flight Delays Act of 2013 to transfer funds to maintain 149 contract towers, originally slated for closure in June 2013:
Press Releases 05/8/2013
Thune Statement on Immigrants in America’s Innovation Economy
Press Releases 05/3/2013
Rockefeller Statement on Pritzker Nomination as Commerce Secretary
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after President Obama nominated Penny Pritzker to be U.S. Secretary of Commerce.
Press Releases 05/3/2013
Rockefeller Statement on Wheeler Nomination as FCC Chairman
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after President Obama nominated Tom Wheeler to be Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).
Press Releases 05/2/2013
Thune Statement on Pritzker Nomination
Press Releases 04/29/2013
Thune Statement on Foxx Nomination
Press Releases 04/29/2013
Rockefeller Intends to Move Mayor Foxx's Transportation Secretary Nomination
WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after President Obama announced his intention to nominate Anthony Foxx, Mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina, as U.S. Secretary of Transportation. There will be a separate announcement about a Commerce Committee hearing on Mayor Foxx's nomination.
Press Releases 04/24/2013
Thune Statement on Do-Not-Track Standards
Press Releases 04/23/2013
Rockefeller, Thune Request Information From FAA on Sequester's Impact on Travellers
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.) and Ranking Member John Thune (R-SD) yesterday sent a letter to Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Michael Huerta in response to the FAA’s announced furlough plan that could result in significant travel disruptions across the country.
Press Releases 04/18/2013
Rockefeller Says FAA Has Failed to Inform Public on Sequester's Impact
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced plans to furlough air traffic controllers while implementing sequestration, resulting in thousands of delayed flights and potentially hundreds of cancelled flights on a daily basis.
Press Releases 04/17/2013
Thune Questions FAA Administrator on Safety, Flexibility on Sequester
Press Releases 04/17/2013
Rockefeller Commends FTC Action Against Wireless Crammer
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV commended the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) today for bringing an action against Wise Media, LLC, a company that the Commission alleges was engaged in the practice of placing unauthorized third-party charges on consumers’ wireless telephone bills. This fraudulent billing practice, commonly referred to as “cramming,” has already cost consumers billions of dollars on their wireline bills. Rockefeller is concerned that wireless companies have not acted aggressively enough to ensure cramming does not migrate from wireline to wireless bills.
Press Releases 04/16/2013
Thune Statement on Aviation Safety
Press Releases 04/16/2013
Rockefeller Shares Concerns on Control Tower Closures with FAA Administrator
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today gave an opening statement at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing titled "Aviation Safety: FAA's Progress on Key Safety Initiatives." Below are his prepared remarks:
Press Releases 04/16/2013
Rockefeller Commends Administration on Practical Ocean Policy
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today commended President Obama and his Administration for releasing a final Implementation Plan on National Ocean Policy. The plan, after months of working with the Committee and relevant stakeholders, translates into making government work better for the American public. Without creating any new regulations or authorities, the plan seeks to ensure that Federal agencies involved in ocean management work together and also with stakeholders to reduce duplication and use taxpayer dollars wisely.
Press Releases 04/12/2013
Rockefeller, Thune Urge FAA to Address Safety in Control Tower Closures
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.) and Ranking Member John Thune (R-S.D.) sent a letter to the U.S. Department of Transportation asking that the agency implement sequestration cuts using lower priority spending rather than close air traffic control towers across the country. The bipartisan letter was also signed by Senate Aviation Subcommittee Chairwoman Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Ranking Member Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), as well as Representatives Bill Shuster (R-Penn.), Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.), and Frank LoBiondo (R-N.J.).
Press Releases 04/10/2013
Thune Statement on Panama Canal Widening
Press Releases 04/10/2013
Rockefeller Says Infrastructure Investment Will Benefit Future Generations
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today reiterated the need to invest in the country’s transportation network after President Obama released his budget that includes $50 billion in upfront transportation infrastructure investments. Rockefeller and Sen. Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ) recently introduced legislation that would leverage federal investment to rebuild and expand transportation infrastructure and create American jobs.
Press Releases 04/10/2013
Rockefeller Calls for Long-Term Transportation Strategy
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today gave an opening statement at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing titled "Expanding the Panama Canal: What Does it Mean for American Freight and Infrastructure?"
Press Releases 04/9/2013
Thune Highlights Value of Rural Broadband
Press Releases 04/5/2013
Rockefeller Says Latest Pipeline Accident is Part of Dangerous Trend
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today called on federal regulators to quickly and efficiently implement pipeline safety reforms in the wake of a rupture in ExxonMobil’s “Pegasus” pipeline that spilled thousands of barrels of crude oil and forced the evacuation of nearly two-dozen homes near Mayflower, Arkansas. These reforms are vital to avoiding future accidents and keeping the public out of harm’s way.
Press Releases 03/22/2013
Thune and Shuster Question Administration’s Choice to Close Contract Towers
Press Releases 03/21/2013
Thune Calls for More Cleared Wireless Spectrum
Press Releases 03/20/2013
Thune Commends FCC Commissioner McDowell on Years of Service
Press Releases 03/12/2013
Rockefeller Calls for Next Generation E-rate to Meet 21st Century Education Needs
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today gave the followingprepared remarks at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation titled "Oversight of the Federal Communications Commission."
Press Releases 03/7/2013
Opening Statement of Ranking Member Thune On Cybersecurity Partnership Between Private Sector and Government
Press Releases 03/7/2013
Thune and Shuster Question Whether FAA Has Explored All Cost Savings Before Punishing Employees and Traveling Public
Press Releases 02/26/2013
Thune and Shuster Request Immediate Information on FAA’s Sequester Plans
Press Releases 02/22/2013
Thune, Shuster, LoBiondo Critical of Administration’s Stance on Sequestration Impacts on Aviation
Press Releases 02/19/2013
Rockefeller on Sen. Lautenberg's Retirement Announcement
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued the following statement after Senator Frank Lautenberg announced that he would retire at the end of this Congress.
Press Releases 02/14/2013
Rockefeller Concerned for Travellers in Proposed American, US Airways Merger
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement on the proposed merger of American Airlines and US Airways.
Press Releases 02/12/2013
Rockefeller on President's State of the Union Address
Chairman Rockefeller issued the following statement on President Obama’s State of the Union address this evening.
Press Releases 02/11/2013
Rockefeller Honors Senator Inouye's Legacy With Bills
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today introduced the International Fisheries Stewardship and Enforcement Act and the Pirate Fishing Elimination Act. Senator Daniel Inouye had sponsored this legislation in previous Congresses, which if enacted would make significant strides towards ending illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing, or “pirate fishing,” a practice that subjects U.S. fishermen to unfair competition and undermines sustainable fisheries management around the world.
Press Releases 01/30/2013
Fortune 500 Companies to Rockefeller: Cybersecurity is a Priority
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released a staff memorandum summarizing the feedback on cybersecurity he received from America’s largest businesses. The feedback was provided in response to his letters in September 2012 to the Chief Executive Officers of Fortune 500 companies.
Press Releases 01/16/2013
Rockefeller Supports Added Protections Against Gun Violence
Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued the following statement regarding the President’s plan to better protect innocent Americans from gun violence.
Press Releases 01/3/2013
Hutchison, Nelson Win Passage of Measure to Sustain and Encourage U.S. Leadership in Space
Press Releases 12/19/2012
Rockefeller Says Modernized COPPA Rule Will Better Protect Children Online
WASHINGTON, DC--Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV gave remarks at a press conference to announce the update and modernization of the regulations implementing the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), also known as the COPPA Rule, to address new commercial practices and technological advances in the past decade.
Press Releases 12/19/2012
Rockefeller Introduces Bill to Study Violent Video Games Impact on Children
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement on the role of violence in video games and his introduction of legislation to study the impact of violent content, including video games and video programming, on children.
Press Releases 12/13/2012
Rockefeller Applauds Passage of Coast Guard Reauthorization
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV applauded final passage of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2012. The legislation authorizes the U.S. Coast Guard’s funding and personnel levels for fiscal years 2013 and 2014 and makes needed refinements to the statutory authorities of the Coast Guard.
Press Releases 12/12/2012
Rockefeller Welcomes Sen. Blumenthal to Commerce Committee
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today welcomed Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Press Releases 12/11/2012
Rockefeller on Sissonville, WV Pipeline Explosion
WASHINGTON, DC – Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement following a major explosion and natural gas line fire in Sissonville, WV:
Press Releases 12/7/2012
Rockefeller Trumpets Study on Health Care Reform's Consumer Rebates
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after a Commonwealth Fund study showed the Affordable Care Act’s medical loss ratio (MLR) saved consumers nearly $1.5 billion in insurer rebates and overhead cost savings in 2011. The MLR provision requires that insurers spend at least 80 percent of consumers’ premium dollars on actual medical care or quality health improving activities or pay a rebate to consumers. The study found that, alongside paying $1.1 billion in rebates, health insurers have become more efficient by cutting over $350 million in excessive administrative costs.
Press Releases 12/6/2012
Rockefeller and Harkin Share "Gray Market" Role in Drug Shortages with States
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Senator Tom Harkin, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor & Pensions, today shared the findings of a recent joint congressional investigation into the prescription drug gray market with all State Boards of Pharmacy.
Press Releases 12/6/2012
Rockefeller Reviews Transportation Systems in West Virginia and Northeast in Wake of Sandy
WASHINGTON, D.C.--For a few harrowing days in October, Hurricane Sandy inflicted devastation on the Eastern United States. As we all watched, and some of us experienced, Sandy wreaked havoc on a massive swath of our country – focusing its anger on the Northeast.
Press Releases 11/29/2012
Rockefeller, Udall Encouraged by FTC Action to Protect Athletes From Deceptive Anti-Concussion Marketing
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Senator Tom Udall (D-NM) today commended the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for sending warning letters to eighteen sports equipment manufacturers for the way they market their products’ ability to reduce the risk of concussions and for reaching a settlement with Brain-Pad, a mouth guard manufacturer. In 2011, the Commerce Committee held a hearing on Brain-Pad and other sports equipment manufacturers which showed that many of these companies’ claims about reducing the risk of concussions were not supported by any scientific evidence.
Press Releases 11/29/2012
Rockefeller Tells Hyundai and Kia to Make Sure Consumers Are Compensated For False Fuel Economy Promise
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today sent a letter to the CEOs of Hyundai and Kia regarding their overstatement of the fuel economy ratings of approximately 900,000 vehicles. Rockefeller is concerned that many affected consumers may not fully participate in the reimbursement program that Hyundai and Kia have voluntarily undertaken and will continue to monitor ongoing federal investigations.
Press Releases 11/28/2012
Rockefeller Remains Concerned News Corp. May Have Violated U.S. Laws
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement on the Leveson Inquiry.
Press Releases 11/16/2012
Rockefeller Statement on BP Criminal Settlement
WASHINGTON, D.C.-- Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued the following statement after news that the Department of Justice and BP reached a plea agreement:
Press Releases 11/14/2012
Sen. Hutchison Discusses SECURE IT, Better Path Forward on Cybersecurity Bill
Press Releases 11/14/2012
Republicans Again Filibuster Opportunity to Strengthen Nation's Cybersecurity
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the Senate failed to pass the Cybersecurity Act of 2012 by a vote of 51-47.
Press Releases 11/13/2012
Sen. Hutchison Praises Final Passage of Bill to Prohibit European Carbon Taxes on U.S. Consumers, Airlines
Press Releases 11/9/2012
Rockefeller Warns GOP Healthcare Rebate Carveout Will Hurt Consumers, Increase Deficit
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today warned against a House Republican proposal, which would exclude insurance agent and broker commissions from counting as administrative costs under the 80/20 rule in the Affordable Care Act. Rockefeller pushed for the 80/20 rule to make sure that health insurance companies spend a larger portion of consumers’ premium dollars on medical care. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) on Wednesday said that the carveout Republicans are proposing would add about $1 billion to the deficit over the next decade. According to the CBO score of H.R. 1206, removing agent and broker commissions from the 80/20 rule would also reduce future rebates by between 60 and 70 percent.
Press Releases 10/24/2012
Rockefeller, Udall Support National Academies' Study on Concussions in Youth Sports
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Senator Tom Udall today commended the Institute of Medicine of the National Academies for creating a committee to study sports-related concussions in youth. Rockefeller and Udall sent a letter in May 2012 to the National Academy of Sciences urging a comprehensive assessment of how best to protect young athletes.
Press Releases 10/22/2012
Rockefeller Applauds FTC Best Practices for Facial Recognition Technologies
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today commended the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for releasing a staff report, which he requested in October 2011, on facial recognition technologies and what they mean for consumers.
Press Releases 10/16/2012
Rockefeller Flags Moving Companies' Business Practices for Justice Department
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today sent letters to the Department of Justice, the Department of Transportation Inspector General, and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration referring the results of the Committee’s year-long investigation into the household goods moving industry. Rockefeller released the staff report at a recent Committee hearing, which raised concerns about the questionable business practices of certain companies and showed the devastating effects on consumers.
Press Releases 10/5/2012
Rockefeller on FCC Action to Sunset Program Access Rules
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller today issued the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) replaced its program access rules, which prohibit cable operators that own programming from denying other video distributors access to that programming, with a new case-by-case complaint process.
Press Releases 10/4/2012
Rockefeller Raises Red Flag on Berkshire Hathaway's BNSF Railroad Purchase
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller, in a letter to the Surface Transportation Board (STB), raised questions about the acquisition of BNSF Railroad by Berkshire Hathaway in 2010. At the time, Berkshire Hathaway failed to acknowledge its ownership of two small railroads and would have been subject to a statutorily-required review by the STB. These multi-rail holdings raise questions about the Federal approval process of the acquisition in 2010. Rockefeller wrote to the STB and asked for a review of the purchase.
Press Releases 10/3/2012
Rockefeller Asks FTC to Encourage Do-Not-Track Standards
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller today sent a letter to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Jon Leibowitz encouraging the FTC to actively participate in the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) deliberations on voluntary do-not-track standards. While pushing the FTC to continue its advocacy of strong consumer privacy protections, Rockefeller has introduced legislation, the Do-Not-Track Online Act, that would legally obligate online companies to honor consumer do-not-track requests.
Press Releases 09/28/2012
Rockefeller Commends FCC Action to Implement Public Safety Spectrum Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today commended the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) for beginning the rulemaking to implement voluntary incentive auctions authorized by his public safety spectrum legislation. This step will allow public comment on the design of the auctions that will fund the nationwide, interoperable wireless broadband network for first responders.
Press Releases 09/26/2012
Rockefeller Writes Google, Microsoft, Yahoo on Moving Companies Abuses
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV sent letters to the senior executives overseeing search quality at Google, Microsoft, and Yahoo! referring the results of the Committee staff investigation into consumer abuses by Internet-based moving brokers. The report documents how these brokers misleadingly market their services to online consumers, sometimes using questionable search engine optimization tactics to “game the system”. The online brokers take advantage of consumers by providing low quotes to arrange the move, only to have the moving carrier dramatically increase the charges—sometimes by several thousand dollars—after they have taken physical possession of the goods.
Press Releases 09/25/2012
Rockefeller Hails Initial Meeting on First Responder Network
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released a statement on the FirstNet board’s first meeting on the nationwide, interoperable broadband network for first responders based on Rockefeller’s public safety spectrum bill.
Press Releases 09/25/2012
Rockefeller, Snowe, and Others Make it Easier for Military Members to Obtain Trucking License
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV announced today that legislation he cosponsored could soon ease the process for former military troops to obtain their commercial driver’s licenses (CDL) when they leave the service and are back home looking for work as commercial drivers.
Press Releases 09/24/2012
Rockefeller Applauds Senate Passage of Coast Guard Reauthorization
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV applauded Senate passage of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2012. The legislation authorizes the U.S. Coast Guard’s funding levels for fiscal years 2013 and 2014, extends the Coast Guard’s major acquisitions authorities, and provides the Coast Guard the essential tools it needs to successfully carry out its eleven statutory missions.
Press Releases 09/20/2012
Rockefeller on Consumer Abuses in Moving Industry
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. "Jay" Rockefeller IV today gave opening remarks at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing entitled "Taking Consumers for a Ride: Business Practices in the Household Goods Moving Industry."
Press Releases 09/19/2012
Rockefeller on Progress, Challenges of COMPETES Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today gave an opening statement at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing on "Five Years of the America COMPETES Act: Progress, Challenges, and Next Steps."
Press Releases 09/19/2012
Rockefeller Calls on Fortune 500 Companies to Prioritize Cybersecurity
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today wrote to the Chief Executive Officers of Fortune 500 companies, challenging them to play a leading role in reforming cyber security laws and to distinguish their solutions-oriented cybersecurity leadership from the obstructionist politics of beltway lobbying organizations such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. In a series of letters to the CEOs of America’s 500 largest businesses, Rockefeller noted that Congress came close to approving new cyber protections this summer—in response to the urgent requests of the Commanding General of Cyber Command and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.
Press Releases 09/14/2012
President's Counterterrorism Advisor Responds to Rockefeller on Critical Infrastructure Executive Order
WASHINGTON, D.C.— In a letter to Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, John Brennan, Assistant to the President for Homeland Security and Counterterrorism, wrote that the President is determined to protect the nation against cyber threats through existing executive authorities, including an Executive Order to secure critical infrastructure in partnership with the private sector.
Press Releases 09/13/2012
Rockefeller, Boxer & Johnson Call on Speaker Boehner to Restore Cuts to Transportation Funding
In a letter sent today, Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Senators Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, and Tim Johnson (D-SD), Chairman of the Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs, wrote to House Speaker John Boehner (R-OH) to oppose cuts to funding for transportation programs included in the six-month continuing resolution and called on Speaker Boehner to restore the funding for these programs in FY 2013. The continuing resolution is expected to be voted on in the House of Representatives today.
Press Releases 09/12/2012
Senator Hutchison Statement at Hearing on Nation’s Path from LEO to Mars
Press Releases 09/12/2012
Rockefeller, Hutchison Hail Collaboration With Scientific Community
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today joined a forum with Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison as part of a new National Academies effort to elevate the role of science and technology in government.
Press Releases 09/12/2012
Rockefeller on Space Exploration
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Prepared Opening Remarks of Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing on "The Path From LEO to Mars":
Press Releases 09/12/2012
Mars Curiosity Rover
Press Releases 08/29/2012
Rockefeller, Lautenberg, Durbin Seek Safety Review of Rail System After Accidents
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Senators John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Frank R. Lautenberg, D-NJ, Chair of the Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, and Dick Durbin, D-IL, requested a Government Accountability Office (GAO) review of rail safety and how the Federal Railroad Administration, state rail safety agencies, and other stakeholders cooperate to ensure the safety of people and goods. This request comes after multiple high-profile rail accidents in recent weeks.
Press Releases 08/20/2012
Rockefeller Applauds Appointments to FirstNet Board
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today applauded the appointments to the board of the First Responder Network Authority, or FirstNet. The first responder network was established by Rockefeller’s Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act.
Press Releases 08/16/2012
Rockefeller, Udall Applaud FTC Action to Protect Consumers From Unscientific Marketing Claims Related to Concussions
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Senator Tom Udall commended the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for taking action against a company for making marketing claims about its product’s ability to reduce the risk concussions that were not supported by scientific evidence.
Press Releases 08/13/2012
Rockefeller Urges President Obama to Protect Country From Cyber Threats
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today called on President Barack Obama to protect our nation’s economic and national security by issuing an Executive Order to create a voluntary public-private partnership that will address our country’s most pressing cyber vulnerabilities. Rockefeller’s letter comes after Senate Republicans blocked comprehensive cybersecurity legislation that our nation’s top military and national security officials say is necessary to protect against cyber attacks.
Press Releases 08/2/2012
Rockefeller Calls Blocking of Cyber Safety Reform Bill "Reckless"
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after Republicans voted to block the Senate from moving ahead with a vote on his cybersecurity legislation:
Press Releases 08/1/2012
Rockefeller on Online Sales Tax
WASHINGTON, DC--Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today gave an opening statement at the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing titled "Marketplace Fairness: Leveling the Playing Field for Small Business."
Press Releases 07/30/2012
Rockefeller, Cosponsors Correct Chamber of Commerce Confusion on Cybersecurity
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Commerce Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, D-W.Va., Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC) Chairman Joe Lieberman, ID-Conn., HSGAC Ranking Member Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Select Intelligence Committee Chairman Dianne Feinstein, D-Ca., sent a letter to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce responding to the Chamber’s mischaracterizations about the revised Cybersecurity Act of 2012.
Press Releases 07/25/2012
Sen. Hutchison Statement at Hearing Highlighting Research, Discovery aboard the International Space Station
Press Releases 07/24/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on Cable Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV gave the following prepared opening statement at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing entitled "The Cable Act at 20" on July 24, 2012:
Press Releases 07/12/2012
Rockefeller on Performance Enhancing Drugs in Horse Racing
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued a prepared opening statement at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing on "Medication and Performance Enhancing Drugs in Horse Racing."
Press Releases 07/12/2012
Rockefeller Bill Will Reform Forensics
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today introduced legislation to help prevent wrongful convictions by bringing reliable, science-based standards to forensic evidence.
Press Releases 07/6/2012
Rockefeller on Transportation Bill Signing
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement after President Obama signed a reauthorization of the nation’s surface transportation programs into law.
Press Releases 06/29/2012
Rockefeller Says Transportation Bill Will Make Nation's Roads Safer
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued the following statement on Senate passage of the surface transportation bill.
Press Releases 06/28/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on Industry Self-Regulation and Privacy Protections
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Two months ago, we held a hearing in this room on the need for Internet privacy protections. We discussed how Americans are tracked each time they visit a website, watch a video, or make a purchase. Both the Obama Administration and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) testified that Americans have very few rights to protect their information online.
Press Releases 06/28/2012
Rockefeller Says Transportation Bill Will Protect Motorists and Save Lives
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued the following statement on a reauthorization agreement of the nation’s federal surface transportation programs:
Press Releases 06/27/2012
Senators Renew Push to Strengthen Cybersecurity
Press Releases 06/26/2012
Rockefeller on Health Care Law Saving Consumers Over $1 Billion
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released a statement today following the release of a Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) report showing consumers will save more than $1 billion thanks to health insurance company rebates. The rebates are a result of the “80/20 rule" in the 2010 health care reform law, which requires health insurance companies to spend a larger portion of their customers’ premium dollars on medical care.
Press Releases 06/21/2012
Rockefeller on Supreme Court's Decision on Indecency Standards
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued the following statement regarding the Supreme Court’s 8-0 decision today on the Federal Communications Commission's enforcement of its "fleeting expletives" policy:
Press Releases 06/21/2012
Rockefeller on Commerce Secretary John Bryson's Resignation
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement on Commerce Secretary John Bryson resigning as the Secretary of the Department of Commerce:
Press Releases 06/21/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on FAA Administrator Nominee Michael Huerta
Washington, D.C.—I want to congratulate you, Mr. Huerta, on your nomination to be the Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). If confirmed, you will be charged with leading the most complex aviation system in the world and an agency that faces several critical challenges.
Press Releases 06/21/2012
Rockefeller Introduces Bill to Protect Soldiers from Foreclosure Abuses
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today said he will fight for passage of legislation to protect service members from losing their homes to banks and other lenders while they are deployed to battlefields in Iraq, Afghanistan or elsewhere.
Press Releases 06/20/2012
Sen. Hutchison Stresses Importance of Continued Progress on both Commercial and Government Space Launch Vehicles
Press Releases 06/20/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on Future of Commercial Space
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The United States has long been a world leader in using space for societal and commercial benefits. Satellites, for example, provide us with instant communication, the indispensable Global Positioning System – or GPS – for navigation, and weather data to inform forecasts that prevent loss of life and property. While the original investment for each of these examples came from the federal government, the commercial sector went on to make them profitable industries.
Press Releases 06/18/2012
Rockefeller on Bipartisan Call for Cybersecurity Action
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued the following statement regarding Senators Olympia Snowe and Mark Warner’s support for full Senate debate on cybersecurity legislation in a letter to Leaders Harry Reid and Mitch McConnell:
Press Releases 06/14/2012
Rockefeller Introduces Telephone Bill Anti-Cramming Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV has introduced S.3291, the Fair Telephone Billing Act of 2012, a bill to protect consumers from unauthorized third-party charges being placed on their telephone bills. This practice, commonly referred to as “cramming,” was the subject of a year-long Senate Commerce Committee investigation which showed that cramming was a problem of epidemic proportions, costing millions of American consumers billions of dollars in unauthorized third-party charges over the past decade.
Press Releases 06/13/2012
Rockefeller on Commerce Secretary John Bryson's Medical Leave of Absence
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement on Commerce Secretary John Bryson taking a medical leave of absence:
Press Releases 06/13/2012
Rockefeller Asks Wireless Carriers for Information on Third-Party Charges
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV sent letters to four U.S. wireless telephone companies to better understand the magnitude of third-party charges on wireless telephone bills and what is being done to protect consumers from unauthorized charges. The practice, known as “cramming,” involves placing unauthorized third-party charges on consumers’ telephone bills.
Press Releases 06/12/2012
Rockefeller, Cummings Provide Summary of Gray Market Investigation
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, sent a letter about the so-called “gray market” distribution network for short-supply prescription drugs to the House-Senate negotiators on legislation to reauthorize programs within the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Press Releases 06/7/2012
Bipartisan National Security Experts Urge Passage of Senate Cybersecurity Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—A bipartisan group of national security experts sent a letter to Leaders Reid and McConnell urging swift action on cybersecurity legislation, writing that “protection of our critical infrastructure is essential in order to effectively protect our national and economic security from the growing cyber threat.”
Press Releases 06/6/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on the EU's Emissions Trading System
WASHINGTON, D.C.— The European Union’s Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) has elicited strong feelings from aviation stakeholders across the globe, which is why it is important that Congress examine its potential impact on international air travel. Secretary LaHood will provide us a much-needed perspective from the Administration. The United States has always led the world on aviation issues. Implementing policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions should not be an exception to our legacy of leadership on aviation.
Press Releases 06/6/2012
Statement from Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison on Future of NASA
Press Releases 05/31/2012
Rockefeller Commends Bipartisan Safety Measures in Surface Transportation Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today applauded a group of parents, safety advocates, and pediatricians endorsing the Senate Commerce Committee's bi-partisan safety measures included in the Senate bill. Rockefeller also praised the strong work by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) today to go after unsafe bus operators.
Press Releases 05/24/2012
Rockefeller Asks American Gas Association for Cybersecurity Standards
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today sent a letter to the American Gas Association requesting information on cybersecurity standards that were developed in 2006 and designed to protect industrial control systems from cyber attacks. A recent press report suggested that, although the standards were tested and supported by both government agencies and private organizations, the measures were not implemented because of the costs.
Press Releases 05/22/2012
Rockefeller on Suspicious Security Incident
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released the following statement today after an incident on a U.S. Airways flight from Paris to Charlotte where a passenger was restrained after an on-flight threat that is currently being investigated:
Press Releases 05/22/2012
Sen. Hutchison Statement on Successful Launch of Commercial Spacecraft
Press Releases 05/18/2012
Rockefeller Asks Drug Distributor for Pricing Information
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Senator Tom Harkin, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, and Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, today sent a letter to the pharmaceutical drug distributor H. D. Smith, requesting information about certain sales of prescription drugs. These transactions came to the attention of the investigating committees during their review of the distribution of short-supply drugs through so-called “gray market” distribution networks.
Press Releases 05/17/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on Tsunami Generated Marine Debris
WASHINGTON, D.C.— More than a year has passed since Japan suffered the Tuhoku earthquake and tsunami—one of the worst natural disasters of all time. As the devastating tsunami waves hit Japan, they literally swept thousands of people and their belongings tragically out to sea. The remains of some 25 million pounds of debris entered the ocean. Japan’s losses were far reaching.
Press Releases 05/16/2012
Sen. Hutchison Questions FCC Chairman on Timetable for Texas Emergency Responder Network
Press Releases 05/16/2012
Sen. Hutchison Urges FCC to Bring Spectrum to Market Quickly
Press Releases 05/16/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on Oversight of the FCC
WASHINGTON, D.C.—It is a pleasure to welcome our witnesses today – all FIVE members of the Federal Communications Commission. I want to say a special word of welcome to the two newest members of the FCC – Commissioners Rosenworcel and Pai. You are both excellent additions to the Commission, and I know your colleagues share my enthusiasm for having you on board. Today’s hearing gives Committee members an opportunity to convey our priorities and to hear from you about your efforts to protect consumers and carry out the public interest.
Press Releases 05/10/2012
Conservative Legal Scholar Backs Security Standards for Critical Infrastructure
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Leading conservative legal scholar Jack Goldsmith Thursday advocated for security standards for the nation’s most critical infrastructure to protect it from probes or attacks by hostile nations, terrorists, and other bad actors. In an opinion piece published on his blog Lawfare, which explores the intersection of law and national security, Goldsmith said critical infrastructure “is central to the security of the nation,” and noted that the Lieberman, Collins, Rockefeller, Feinstein cybersecurity bill is the only one in Congress that addresses critical infrastructure.
Press Releases 05/9/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on the Need for Privacy Protections
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Every day, tens of millions of Americans go on-line to search for information, shop, pay their bills, or access a social networking site. To state the obvious, the Internet has fundamentally transformed every aspect of our lives. What is less obvious is the level of information that is collected about us each time we visit a website, watch a video, send an email, or make a purchase.
Press Releases 05/8/2012
Rockefeller Remarks at Surface Transportation Reauthorization Conference
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following prepared remarks at the opening meeting of the House-Senate Surface Transportation Reauthorization Conference:
Press Releases 05/8/2012
Rockefeller on FAA Whistleblower Claims
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller today released the following statement on the letter from the Office of Special Counsel about Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) whistleblower claims:
Press Releases 05/7/2012
Rockefeller Statement Following FCC Commissioners Vote
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement after the U.S. Senate voted to confirm key Federal Communications Commission (FCC) nominations:
Press Releases 05/2/2012
Rockefeller Asks British Panel for Phone Hacking Information
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Sen. Jay Rockefeller today sent a letter to Lord Justice Brian Leveson, who is currently leading a special judicial investigation into phone hacking and other alleged illegal activities by News International, a subsidiary of News Corporation. The letter asks Lord Leveson if his inquiry has uncovered any new information suggesting that News International’s conduct involved U.S. citizens or violated U.S. laws.
Press Releases 04/27/2012
House Cybersecurity Action Does Not Provide Comprehensive Protection
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The four Senate co-sponsors of bipartisan and comprehensive cybersecurity legislation – Senators Joe Lieberman, ID-Conn., Susan Collins, R-Maine, Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., and Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif. – issued the following reaction Friday to partial action in the House on cybersecurity.
Press Releases 04/27/2012
Rockefeller Statement on Lifting of Hold on FCC Nominees
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement:
Press Releases 04/27/2012
Rockefeller Supports Anti-Cramming FCC Vote
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to enact rules aimed at preventing phone companies from placing unauthorized third-party charges on their customers’ landline telephone bills.
Press Releases 04/27/2012
Rockefeller Statement on Youth Traffic Safety Month
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement of support for the designation of May 2012 as National Youth Traffic Safety Month.
Press Releases 04/26/2012
Rockefeller Statement on Consumer Savings from Insurance Company Rebates
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released the following statement today following release of a report showing consumers will save more than $1 billion from insurance company rebates.
Press Releases 04/26/2012
Rockefeller Statement on Surface Transportation Conference
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement on the House-Senate conference on the Surface Transportation Reauthorization bill (S. 1813).
Press Releases 04/25/2012
House Cyber Bills Are Not Enough
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The four lead sponsors of Senate legislation to protect the nation’s most critical networks said Wednesday that cybersecurity legislation to be debated in the House provides inadequate protection against malicious cyber intrusions or attacks. Senators Joe Lieberman, ID-Conn., Susan Collins, R-Maine, Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., and Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., have introduced the Cybersecurity Act of 2012, to apply minimum security standards to the networks of the nation’s most critical infrastructure. They released the following joint statement:
Press Releases 04/24/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on the Emergence of Online Video
WASHINGTON, D.C.— This hearing is about the emergence of online video—and the power of broadband to change the way we watch. This is the start of an exciting and timely conversation.
Press Releases 04/18/2012
Rockefeller Statement Following Subcommittee Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV made this statement following today’s Surface Transportation, Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security Subcommittee hearing on “Protecting Commuters: Ensuring Accountability and Oversight in Tolling”
Press Releases 04/17/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on Promoting American Competitiveness
WASHINGTON, D.C.—I want to thank Senator Klobuchar for holding this important hearing today. The need for investment in the skills of the American worker is as great as ever.
Press Releases 04/11/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on Shale Gas Development
FAIRMONT, WEST VIRGINIA— Welcome everyone. Thank you for being here today, Representative Capito and Representative McKinley. Thanks also to the West Virginia High Tech Consortium -- Jim Estep and your staff. Welcome also the many familiar faces in the audience and all West Virginians.
Press Releases 03/29/2012
Rockefeller Says House Should Not Leave for Easter Without Passing Two-Year Surface Transportation Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement after the Senate passed a 90-day extension of the nation’s surface transportation programs:
Press Releases 03/28/2012
Another Major Phone Company Agrees to End Third-Party Billing on Consumer Phone Bills
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement today after AT&T announced it would soon stop placing misleading third-party charges on its customers’ landline telephone bills. Verizon made a similar announcement last week.
Press Releases 03/28/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on the Science and Standards of Forensics
WASHINGTON, D.C.—I don’t often get the chance to say that a Commerce Committee hearing is about truth and justice. But that’s exactly what this hearing is about today. It’s about using more science in our criminal justice system. And it’s about creating standards that judges, prosecutors, defense lawyers, and juries all can trust.
Press Releases 03/27/2012
NSA Director Says Security Standards Are Necessary for Critical Cyber Networks, Information Sharing is Not Enough
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The head of the military’s Cyber Command said Tuesday that information-sharing among critical infrastructure owners and operators is not enough to protect their cyber networks against attacks from rival nations, criminals, terrorists, and pranksters. Information sharing combined with security standards are needed to confront the growing cyber threat, said General Keith Alexander.
Press Releases 03/26/2012
Rockefeller Statement on FTC Privacy Report
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement today after the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) unveiled its online privacy report with recommendations for the industry and policymakers:
Press Releases 03/21/2012
Rockefeller, Cummings, and Harkin Investigate "Fake Pharmacies" Buying and Selling Shortage Drugs in the Gray Market
WASHINTON, D.C.—Today, Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, and Senator Tom Harkin, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, sent letters requesting documents from licensed pharmacies that are buying up drugs that are desperately needed to treat cancer and other illnesses and are in critically short supply, and are selling these drugs back into the gray market instead of providing them to patients who need them.
Press Releases 03/21/2012
Rockefeller Hails Verizon Decision to Shut Down Unwanted 3rd-Party Charges on Telephone Bills
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement today after Verizon notified him that it has agreed to stop placing third-party charges for enhanced services on its customers’ landline telephone bills:
Press Releases 03/20/2012
Rockefeller Remarks on Commercial Airline Safety Oversight
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Safety has always been the principal goal of the aviation community, and my primary focus since I joined the Commerce Committee more than 20 years ago. Every member of the aviation community begins their workday focused first and foremost on safety. For commercial airline and federal employees—from the pilots, flight attendants and the air traffic controllers, to the mechanics and the technicians, safety is paramount throughout their daily work. And this emphasis has paid off—the last U.S. fatal passenger accident was February 12, 2009. The past few years have been the safest in the history of the U.S. aviation industry. The reason we have been successful is that we are constantly striving to make even the smallest safety improvements. It is a continual effort, and that is why we are here today.
Press Releases 03/14/2012
Sen. Hutchison Wins Passage of Landmark Bus Safety Bill
Press Releases 03/14/2012
Rockefeller Says Senate Surface Bill Provides Roadmap for Safer, More Efficient Transportation System
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement today after the Senate passed a two-year, bipartisan reauthorization of the nation’s federal surface transportation programs. These programs promote job growth, strengthen the economy, and make America’s passenger vehicles and surface transportation infrastructure safer and more efficient.
Press Releases 03/9/2012
Push for Cybersecurity Bill Continues
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Key industry stakeholders and top administration officials continue to weigh in on the need for cybersecurity legislation. In a letter to sponsors of the Cybersecurity Act of 2012, defense contractor Northrop Grumman yesterday urged action to protect critical infrastructure from cyber threats. And today, Commerce Secretary John Bryson penned an op-ed in POLITICO on the need for immediate action on cybersecurity legislation.
Press Releases 03/7/2012
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on the President's FY 2013 Budget Proposals for the Coast Guard and NOAA
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The importance of National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in helping Americans and West Virginians prepare for and respond to dangerous weather was on display during last week’s weather events. News reports indicate that agencies had nearly perfect predictions and issued timely warnings about the path of storms.
Press Releases 03/6/2012
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Keeping America Competitive Through Investments in R&D
Press Releases 03/6/2012
More Praise for Bipartisan Cybersecurity Bill from IT Organization
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) is saluting the Cybersecurity Act of 2012 and the collaborative process that occurred during the bill’s drafting.
Press Releases 03/5/2012
Kean, Hamilton Stress Need for Cyber Protection for Critical Infrastructure
Press Releases 03/2/2012
Cyber Legislation Must Address Insecurity of Our Critical Infrastructure
WASHINGTON – The four original cosponsors of the Cybersecurity Act of 2012, S. 2105 – Senators Joe Lieberman, ID-Conn., Susan Collins, R-Maine, Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., and Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif. - issued the following statement Friday about an alternative bill introduced by eight Republicans Thursday:
Press Releases 03/1/2012
Senators Introduce Legislation to Strengthen Cybersecurity
Washington, DC - U.S. Senators John McCain (R-AZ), Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), Saxby Chambliss (R-GA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Dan Coats (R-IN), Ron Johnson (R-WI), and Richard Burr (R-NC) today introduced the Strengthening and Enhancing Cybersecurity by Using Research, Education, Information, and Technology Act (SECURE IT), their proposal to protect and secure our nation against cybersecurity attacks.
Press Releases 03/1/2012
Bipartisan Committee Leaders React to Introduction of New Cybersecurity Bill
WASHINGTON – The four original co-sponsors of bipartisan legislation designed to protect the nation’s most vital critical infrastructure - Senators Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., Joe Lieberman, ID-Conn., Susan Collins, R-Maine, and Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif. - issued the following statement Thursday on new cybersecurity legislation introduced by a group of seven Republican Senators:
Press Releases 02/27/2012
Global Internet Service Provider Endorses Cybersecurity Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Support for The Cybersecurity Act of 2012, S. 2105, continues to accumulate with a new endorsement from a global internet service provider that could be covered critical infrastructure under the bill.
Press Releases 02/23/2012
Rockefeller Supports Administration's Online Privacy Proposal
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV made the following statement in support of the White House online privacy proposals announced today and reiterated his commitment to making sure consumers’ personal information is protected:
Press Releases 02/17/2012
Rockefeller Statement on Reports That Google Tracks Online Users
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement concerning reports that Google and other advertising companies have been tracking online users who surf the Internet with Apple’s Safari Internet browser:
Press Releases 02/16/2012
Senate Dems Say Spectrum Agreement Will Improve Safety of First Responders and the Americans They Serve
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Senators Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Frank R. Lautenberg (D-N.J.), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) today hailed a historic win for America’s first responders and the economy as an agreement in the payroll tax deal will provide them a nationwide, wireless, broadband network and raise billions to pay down the nation’s deficit.
Press Releases 02/16/2012
Rockefeller Delivers Remarks on Urgent Need for Cybersecurity Legislation Before Senate Homeland Security Committee
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV appeared today before the U.S. Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to speak about the urgent need for cybersecurity legislation to be enacted.
Press Releases 02/15/2012
IT Industry, National & Homeland Defense Leaders Lend Support to Cybersecurity Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Support for The Cybersecurity Act of 2012, S. 2105 is growing now that the bill has been introduced in the Senate.
Press Releases 02/15/2012
Senator Hutchison Remarks at NASA Reception Honoring International Space Station Crew
Press Releases 02/15/2012
Rockefeller Hails Progress on First Responder Network
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement today:
Press Releases 02/14/2012
Senators Call on Senate Majority Leader Reid to Allow Hearings, Debate on Cybersecurity Legislation
Press Releases 02/14/2012
Senate Committee Leaders Offer Bipartisan, Comprehensive Bill to Secure Federal and Critical Private Sector Cyber Systems
WASHINGTON, D.C.—To guard against the nation’s increasing vulnerability to cyber attack, a group of Senate Committee leaders introduced bipartisan legislation Tuesday to secure the cyber systems of essential services that keep our nation running.
Press Releases 02/14/2012
Senator Hutchison to Work with Colleagues to Restore NASA Human Exploration Funding
Press Releases 02/14/2012
Rockefeller Speaks on Need to Shore Up America's Cyber Defenses
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Mr. President, when most Americans think of cyber security, they conjure up an image of someone having a credit card number stolen, a prankster using their Twitter account or someone downloading a movie without paying. And that’s all true. The Internet is central to our lives, our economy and our society. Any insecurity is a worry.
Press Releases 02/13/2012
Rockefeller Supports Commitment to Reviving American Manufacturing in President's Budget Proposal
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement supporting the President’s manufacturing commitment in his budget proposal released today:
Press Releases 02/6/2012
Senator Hutchison Lauds Passage of Milestone Long-term FAA Funding Bill
Press Releases 02/6/2012
Rockefeller Hails Passage of Four-Year FAA Reauthorization
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement today after the Senate passed a four-year FAA reauthorization bill that will improve flight safety, modernize the U.S. aviation system, and create thousands of American jobs. The bill now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.
Press Releases 01/31/2012
Rockefeller Says Congress Needs to Act on Cybersecurity Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV spoke at a Senate Intelligence Committee hearing today on the urgent need to pass cybersecurity legislation, which he is writing with Homeland Security Committee Chairman Joe Lieberman, Ranking Member Susan Collins, and other Senate colleagues. The Rockefeller-Lieberman-Collins proposal would improve the security standards for critical private sector networks, support public-private information sharing, and streamline existing government authorities to protect from cyber-attack.
Press Releases 01/31/2012
Rockefeller Statement on FAA Conference Meeting
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued a statement after today’s FAA conference meeting:
Press Releases 01/31/2012
Senator Hutchison Applauds Senate, House Agreement on Long-term FAA Reauthorization
Press Releases 01/26/2012
Senator Hutchison Honors Service and Memory of NASA Heroes
Press Releases 01/25/2012
Rockefeller Statement on President's State of the Union Address
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement praising President Obama’s priorities outlined in the State of the Union address:
Press Releases 01/23/2012
Rockefeller Applauds New Airline Passenger Protections
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement in support of new airline passenger protections that took effect today. As part of the final provisions of a rulemaking the Department of Transportation (DOT) made last year, airlines and ticket agents are required to publish all additional taxes and fees for airfares as well as disclose baggage fees to consumers buying tickets.
Press Releases 01/13/2012
Sen. Hutchison Applauds Texas’ Leadership in Innovation & Science at 9th Annual TAMEST Conference
Press Releases 01/13/2012
Rockefeller Statement on Executive Initiative to Streamline Government Agencies
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement regarding President Obama’s proposed initiative to consolidate several commerce- and trade-related agencies:
Press Releases 01/6/2012
Rockefeller Says Federal Investment in Science & Technology Will Spark Job & Innovation Growth
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released the following statement today after Commerce Secretary John Bryson unveiled the findings of the Department’s COMPETES report. The report was mandated as part of the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010, which was introduced by Chairman Rockefeller and signed into law last year.
Press Releases 01/4/2012
Hutchison bill on expedited airport screening for troops now law
Press Releases 12/28/2011
Rockefeller Says Internet Domain Expansion Will Hurt Consumers, Businesses, and Non-Profits - Urges Delay
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today asked that federal authorities find ways to protect consumers and businesses from any negative impacts associated with a broad new expansion in the number of Internet domain names.
Press Releases 12/21/2011
Rockefeller, Cantwell Support New Pilot Fatigue Rules
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Commerce Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Aviation Subcommittee Chairwoman Maria Cantwell today came out in support of the Department of Transportation’s new rule to prevent airline pilots from flying while fatigued.
Press Releases 12/20/2011
Sen. Hutchison Lauds House Passage of Expedited Airport Screening for Military
Press Releases 12/19/2011
Rockefeller Encourages Speaker Boehner to Remember FAA Conference Request
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement after House leaders insisted they hold a House-Senate conference committee meeting on the payroll tax:
Press Releases 12/19/2011
Rockefeller Investigates Consumer Complaints of Moving Companies Holding Furniture & Possessions Hostage
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV announced today that the Committee is conducting an investigation into the practice of moving companies holding household goods “hostage” to extract additional money from individuals and families mid-way through their moves.
Press Releases 12/17/2011
Rockefeller Disappointed Public Safety Measures Not Included in Payroll Tax Agreement
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement regarding ongoing efforts to create a nationwide public safety communications network:
Press Releases 12/15/2011
Rockefeller Says Defense Bill Protects Taxpayers, Promotes U.S. Technological Innovation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The 2012 National Defense Authorization Act (H.R. 1540) adopted by the Senate today included tough new measures to fight waste, fraud, and abuse in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV authored these measures after a Commerce Committee investigation found evidence that funds awarded through these two technology innovation programs were being misused.
Press Releases 12/15/2011
Senate Chairmen Join Cummings' Investigation of "Gray Market" Drug Companies
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Senator Tom Harkin, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, joined Rep. Elijah E. Cummings, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, in his investigation of “gray market” companies that trade in drugs in critically short supply.
Press Releases 12/15/2011
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Environmental Risk of Genetically Engineered Fish
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Good morning. We’re holding this hearing today to discuss the potential environmental risks of genetically engineered fish. The hearing could not be timelier: as I speak, the FDA may be finalizing approval of the first genetically engineered animal for human consumption in the U.S. This is truly ground breaking and for many, this is concerning. The “AquaAdvantage” salmon has been engineered to grow faster and heartier than its natural counterpart by mixing genes from three different fish species, so its filets can quickly get from the fish pen to your dinner table.
Press Releases 12/14/2011
Rockefeller Statement on Public Safety Network
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement today:
Press Releases 12/14/2011
Sen. Hutchison Discusses Her "Trust the Troops Act" with Host Michael Castner on The Wall Street Journal’s Radio Show “The Daily Wrap”
Press Releases 12/14/2011
Commerce Committee Approves Surface Transportation Safety Bills
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation today approved several surface transportation safety bills at a Committee markup. The bills now await consideration by the full Senate.
Press Releases 12/14/2011
Senate Approves Pipeline Safety Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Senate unanimously approved the Pipeline Safety, Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act of 2011, which will strengthen pipeline safety oversight by the federal government and address long-standing safety issues.
Press Releases 12/14/2011
Rockefeller Remarks on Today's Surface Transportation Markup
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Last week, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced that highway deaths fell to 32,885 for the year, the lowest level since 1949. The record-breaking decline in traffic fatalities occurred even as American drivers traveled nearly 46 billion more miles during the year. Importantly, our decade-long effort to reduce drunk driving is making a real impact. Deaths in crashes involving drunk drivers dropped almost 5% in 2010. Despite generally positive trends, all the news was not good. DOT noted that fatalities rose among pedestrians, motorcycle riders, and large truck occupants.