Press Releases

Press Releases 11/22/2013
Congressional Transportation Leaders Question DOJ Proposed Airline Merger Settlement
Press Releases 11/21/2013
Thune Statement on Commerce Committee Nomination Hearing
Press Releases 11/21/2013
Rockefeller: Evidence is Overwhelming that Railroads are Financially Strong
WASHINGTON, D.C.--Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today gave opening remarks at a U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing on several nominations. Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery:
Press Releases 11/21/2013
Rockefeller: Bad Actors Preying on Military Need to be Stopped
WASHINGTON, D.C.—During a hearing yesterday about abusive and illegal business practices aimed at members of the military, Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV implored state and federal officials to continue their "all-of-the-above" efforts to stop bad actors from attempting to make a quick buck at the expense of service men and women and their families.
Press Releases 11/21/2013
Rockefeller Releases Report Concluding Freight Railroads Are Setting New Records in Financial Performance
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued an update to the 2010 Committee Majority Staff Report that examined the financial state of the rail industry, concluding that the financial performance of dominant Class I freight rail companies is at its strongest since the passage of the Staggers Act of 1980.
Press Releases 11/21/2013
Rockefeller, Thune, Carper, Coburn Introduce Resolution to Condemn LAX Shooting, Honor Victims and Those Who Responded to the Attack
Washington, D.C. – Senator Jay Rockefeller (D-WV), Chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Ranking Member John Thune (R-SD), along with Senators Tom Carper (D-DE) and Tom Coburn (R-OK), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, today introduced a resolution to condemn the tragic shooting at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on November 1, 2013. The resolution also honors victims of the shooting and praises those who helped with the response including Transportation Security Administration (TSA) officers, first responders, and law enforcement and medical personnel. The shooter killed Gerardo Hernandez, a TSA officer, wounded two other TSA officers, James Speer and Tony Grigsby, and injured a member of the traveling public, Brian Ludmer.
Press Releases 11/20/2013
Thune Statement on Unfair Business Practices Facing Military Servicemembers
Press Releases 11/20/2013
Rockefeller: We Owe Servicemembers Protection From Unscrupulous Business Practices
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, "Soldiers as Consumers: Predatory and Unfair Business Practices Harming the Military Community”. Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery:
Press Releases 11/18/2013
Rockefeller Says Compounding Bill Brings Accountability to Prescription Drug Market
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today praised final congressional passage of the Drug Quality and Security Act (H.R. 3204), bipartisan legislation with major consumer and life-saving benefits that President Obama will now sign into law. The bill was developed with critical information uncovered during Rockefeller’s joint Senate-House investigation into the prescription drug “gray market”, which found that unscrupulous operators can make enormous profits by buying hard-to-find drugs and then marking them up and re-selling at astronomical price points.
Press Releases 11/14/2013
Rockefeller: National Academies Report Calls for Investing in Scientific Talent Nationwide
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator Jay Rockefeller today released the following statement on the National Academies report released today on Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR), a federal initiative focused on building science and technological research capacity. Since 2000, EPSCoR has spurred more than $900 million in federal academic research and development investments in the state. In West Virginia these funds are being used to build research capacity to compete in federal science and technology competitions. In 2010, West Virginia received a $20 million EPSCoR grant which is the largest in state history.
Press Releases 11/13/2013
Rockefeller: We Must Prioritize Investments that Create Jobs or Risk Losing our Competitiveness
WASHINGTON, D.C.—During a Commerce Committee hearing today on U.S. innovation and manufacturing today, Chairman Jay Rockefeller called on his colleagues to prioritize investments that are proven to create jobs and boost our economy.
Press Releases 11/13/2013
Thune Statement on Manufacturing in an Innovation Economy
Press Releases 11/13/2013
Rockefeller: The U.S. Must Continue to Invest in Innovation, Strengthen Manufacturing Sector
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, "The Role of Manufacturing Hubs in a 21st Century Innovation Economy". Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery.
Press Releases 11/12/2013
Rockefeller Statement on Commerce Committee Approving McSweeny's FTC Nomination
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the nomination of Ms. Terrell McSweeny to be a Commissioner of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) was favorably reported out of the Commerce Committee.
Press Releases 11/12/2013
Rockefeller Introduces Bill to Promote a Consumer-Centric Video Marketplace
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Because consumers are paying ever-increasing television bills with little control over the channels and programming they purchase, Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today introduced groundbreaking legislation to promote a consumer-centric video marketplace titled, the Consumer Choice in Online Video Act.
Press Releases 11/7/2013
Rockefeller Letter on Shark Conservation Act Implementation
Press Releases 11/6/2013
Rockefeller: Does Congress Have the Will to Protect Our Lead in Science and Research?
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Jay Rockefeller today called on his colleagues to make the critical investments in innovation and science that lead to high paying jobs and a growing economy. Rockefeller, the chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, convened a hearing with researchers, scientific experts and educators to discuss how an increase in federal investments would benefit U.S. innovation and research and development (R&D).
Press Releases 11/6/2013
Thune Statement on America COMPETES
Press Releases 11/6/2013
Rockefeller: Investing in R&D and STEM Education Will Create Jobs and Grow Economy
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, "America COMPETES: Science and the U.S. Economy". Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery.
Press Releases 11/5/2013
Rockefeller Statement on New Pilot Training Rules
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a final rule to strengthen pilot training, which was mandated by Congress in the Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010.
Press Releases 11/5/2013
Thune, McCaskill Call on U.S. Negotiators to Hold Line on Aircraft Emission Taxes
Press Releases 11/1/2013
Rockefeller Statement on Shooting at LAX
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the shooting at Los Angeles International Airport. "My thoughts go out to the victims of today's shooting at LAX. It's heartbreaking every time a shooting occurs and today's horrible event reminds us that aviation security extends all the way from the gates to the skies. TSA agents are at the front lines of protecting our nation and they deserve our support in carrying out risky and sensitive jobs. While some in Congress believe that privatizing our aviation security workforce would be preferable, these brave men and women are proving that the federal TSA agents are highly capable and ready to protect passengers every step of the way."
Press Releases 10/31/2013
Rockefeller Welcomes Senator Booker to the Senate Commerce Committee
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement welcoming Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.
Press Releases 10/31/2013
Rockefeller Warns Passenger Use of Electronic Devices Must Not Compromise Safety
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) determined that airlines can allow passenger use of Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs) during the entire flight – including taxi, takeoff, and landing. Carriers will have to prove to the FAA that each type of aircraft can function safely while passengers use their devices. Passengers will still have to turn off the cellular service to use their device.
Press Releases 10/31/2013
Thune Statement on FAA Electronic Device Recommendation
Press Releases 10/30/2013
Rockefeller, Udall React to New IOM Report on Sports Equipment and Concussions
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.V.) and Senator Tom Udall (D-N.M.) today released the following statements after the Institute of Medicine (IOM) of the National Academies released a report concluding there is little to no medical evidence that youth equipment protects against risks of concussions. At Rockefeller and Udall’s urging, the IOM studied how best to protect young athletes from sports-related concussions so parents and coaches can make informed decisions about how to keep athletes safe.
Press Releases 10/29/2013
Rockefeller Statement on Confirmation of Tom Wheeler and Mike O'Rielly to the FCC
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued the following statement after Tom Wheeler and Mike O’Rielly were confirmed to be Chairman and Commissioner, respectively, of the Federal Communications Commission.
Press Releases 10/29/2013
Thune Statement on Confirmation of FCC Nominees Wheeler and O’Rielly
Press Releases 10/28/2013
Thune Applauds FCC Efforts on Call Completion Problems
Press Releases 10/24/2013
Rockefeller's Latest Letter to Experian Requests Information on Reported Data Disclosures to Identity Theft Services
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV yesterday sent a letter to Experian as part of his ongoing investigation into the data broker industry. Thus far, Experian has refused to fully respond to questions about identities of customers who purchase its data and specific sources of its data, as requested by Rockefeller’s October 9, 2012 letter to nine data brokers when he launched the investigation.
Press Releases 10/21/2013
Rockefeller Announces Departure of Chief of Staff Kerry Ates; James Reid Will Succeed Ates as Chief of Staff
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today announced that Kerry A. Ates, who has served as his long-time Chief of Staff, will be departing in mid-December to assume the role of vice president and chief of staff at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD, beginning in January 2014.
Press Releases 10/18/2013
Rockefeller Statement on Homeland Security Secretary Nominee Jeh Johnson
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement on the president’s nomination of Jeh Johnson to be Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security:
Press Releases 10/11/2013
Rockefeller Says Government Shutdown is "Doing Great Harm to Our Country"
WASHINGTON, DC -- Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV gave opening remarks at today's U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing titled, "The Impacts of the Government Shutdown on Our Economic Security."
Press Releases 10/11/2013
Rockefeller Releases Report on Impacts of the Government Shutdown
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released a report titled, “Impacts of the 2013 Government Shutdown” – a snapshot of the impacts of the government shutdown to the public and the U.S. economy. The report was released during the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing titled, “The Impacts of the Government Shutdown on Our Economic Security,” on Friday, October 11, 2013 at 1:00 p.m.
Press Releases 09/24/2013
Thune Statement on Improving Transportation Infrastructure
Press Releases 09/23/2013
Thune Calls on U.S. Delegation to Oppose European Emission Tax
Press Releases 09/18/2013
Thune Statement on McSweeny and O’Rielly Nomination Hearing
Press Releases 08/1/2013
Thune Reacts to Federal Communications Commission Nominee
Press Releases 08/1/2013
Rockefeller Introduces Tax Bills to Make Sure Cruise Lines Are Paying Their Fair Share
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today introduced legislation today to close a tax loophole, currently exploited by the cruise industry, that has given cruise lines the ability to avoid paying U.S. income tax. For the past seven years, Carnival and Royal Caribbean – which represent 71 percent of the global cruise industry – paid an effective worldwide tax rate of just 1.3 percent on more than $17 billion in profits. Because this figure includes foreign taxes, the cruise industry’s effective U.S. tax rate is actually much lower than 1.3 percent. Rockefeller’s legislation would eliminate this outrageous exemption by requiring cruise lines to pay their fair share of taxes and support the federal resources on which they heavily rely.
Press Releases 07/31/2013
Thune Statement on Energy Drink Hearing
Press Releases 07/31/2013
Thune Executive Session Opening Statement
Press Releases 07/30/2013
Rockefeller Statement on Bipartisan Commerce Committee Votes
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation concluded the executive session:
Press Releases 07/25/2013
Thune Statement on Cybersecurity Hearing
Press Releases 07/25/2013
Rockefeller Says NIST's Mission Should Include Cybersecurity
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, "The Partnership Between NIST and the Private Sector: Improving Cybersecurity". Below are his prepared remarks:
Press Releases 07/25/2013
Rockefeller Statement on Wireline Communications
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller iV today submitted a prepared statement at the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation hearing titled, "State of Wireline Communications".
Press Releases 07/25/2013
Thune Statement on State of Wireline Hearing
Press Releases 07/24/2013
Rockefeller Releases Cruise Crime Report that Shows Gaps in Accessibility of Safety Data
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released a report that exposes critical barriers to public access of important cruise ship crime and safety data. The reality is, according to the report, the number of alleged crimes cruise lines have reported to the FBI since 2011 is 30 times higher than the number of crimes the FBI is required to report publicly.
Press Releases 07/24/2013
Rockefeller, Thune Introduce Bipartisan Cyber Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV) and Ranking Member John Thune (R-SD) today introduced bipartisan cyber legislation that would help strengthen and protect the nation’s economic and national security. The Cybersecurity Act of 2013, S. 1353, would give the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) authority to facilitate and support the development of voluntary, industry-led cyber standards and best practices for critical infrastructure. The bill would also make sure the federal government supports cutting edge research, raises public awareness of cyber risks, and improves the nation’s workforce to better address cyber threats.
Press Releases 07/24/2013
Thune Statement on Cruise Industry Oversight
Press Releases 07/24/2013
Rockefeller Puts Cruise Industry on Notice that Passenger Safety and Security is Number One Priority
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, "Cruise Industry Oversight: Recent Incidents Show Need for Stronger Focus on Consumer Protection". Below are his prepared remarks:
Press Releases 07/23/2013
Rockefeller's Cruise Bill Puts Consumer Awareness and Protection at the Forefront
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today introduced the Cruise Passenger Protection Act of 2013, a bill that would close gaps in cruise industry consumer awareness and crime reporting. Serious incidents continue to occur on cruise ships, yet the industry has not prioritized consumer awareness, safety, and security. Rockefeller’s bill would provide the nearly 21 million Americans who plan to take a cruise this year with critical information about the limited scope of their current consumer protections and would take steps to improve accountability in the industry.
Press Releases 07/19/2013
Rockefeller Asks GAO to Assess Effectiveness of Oil and Gas Transportation
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today requested the Government Accountability Office (GAO) examine the impact of current shale oil and gas development on the nation’s existing transportation infrastructure. The boom in domestic shale oil and gas production has raised questions about the ability of existing infrastructure to safely transport these hazardous products, and the capacity of safety standards as production increases. Recent events, including the tragic Quebec train derailment earlier this month, and the December 2012 pipeline explosion in Sissonville, WV, have raised concerns about potential gaps in safety standards.
Press Releases 07/19/2013
Rockefeller Commends FCC on E-Rate Vote
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to formally begin the rulemaking process on expanding the E-Rate program to give students access to next-generation educational technology.
Press Releases 07/17/2013
Thune Statement on Future of E-Rate
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
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 04/29/2013
Thune Statement on Foxx 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
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
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 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.