Press Releases

Press Releases 12/16/2016
One Last 2016 Senate Commerce Bill Heads to White House
The bill encourages scientific entrepreneurship, maximizes research opportunities, reduces administrative burdens for researchers, and promotes oversight of taxpayer-funded research. It also enhances diversity in STEM fields, private-sector innovation, and manufacturing.
Press Releases 12/15/2016
Thune and Wicker on FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler’s Announced Departure
“I wish Chairman Wheeler well in his future endeavors,” said Thune. “No one who worked with him can doubt his tenacity and passion for telecommunications policy. His public departure announcement follows longstanding precedent and helps the incoming administration transition the FCC to reflect the outcome of the November election.”
Press Releases 12/14/2016
New Senate Report Raises Concerns Over Privacy Risk Associated With Smart Toys
Press Releases 12/12/2016
Thune and Nelson on Senate Approval of Bipartisan Science and Technology Bill
The bill encourages scientific entrepreneurship, maximizes research opportunities, reduces administrative burdens for researchers, and promotes oversight of taxpayer-funded research. It would also enhance diversity in STEM fields, private-sector innovation, and manufacturing.
Press Releases 12/9/2016
Nelson Statement on Takata Remedy Update
Press Releases 12/8/2016
Commerce Committee’s Sexual Assault Prevention Reforms for NOAA, Merchant Marine Academy Head to President’s Desk
The U.S. Senate today approved reforms adopted by the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation to protect midshipmen at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration employees and contractors from sexual assault.
Press Releases 12/6/2016
Thune Talks Business with Designated Secretary of Commerce Nominee Wilbur Ross
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement following a meeting with President-elect Donald Trump’s designated nominee for Secretary of Commerce, Wilbur Ross.
Press Releases 12/6/2016
Infrastructure, Innovation Top Thune Discussion with Designated Secretary of Transportation Nominee Elaine Chao
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement following a meeting with President-elect Donald Trump’s designated nominee for Secretary of Transportation, Elaine Chao.
Press Releases 12/2/2016
Senate Approves Bicameral Weather Forecasting Reforms
The bill as amended, which leaders of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House Science Committee negotiated, adds other weather forecasting and research reform provisions from three bills (S. 1331, S. 1573, and H.R. 34), including reforms championed by Commerce Committee Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.), Sen. Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and House Science, Space, and Technology Committee Chairman Lamar Smith (R-Texas).
Press Releases 12/1/2016
Senate Commerce Presses FAA for Answers on Air Traffic Control Modernization
Third party audits, including a recent Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General report requested by Chairman Thune, have continued to indicate that the FAA is not implementing NextGen in a sufficiently timely and effective manner.
Press Releases 12/1/2016
Moran Bill to Improve Consumer Access to Entertainment Events Passes
U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), chairman of the Senate Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance and Data Security Subcommittee, commended last night’s Senate passage of the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act, S. 3183, bipartisan legislation he led to end duplicative practices of “ticket bots” that monopolize tickets for entertainment events.
Press Releases 11/30/2016
Fischer to Chair Transportation Security Subcommittee Hearing
The hearing will examine potential security vulnerabilities in the U.S. transportation system and efforts to guard against the threat of terrorism targeting surface transportation infrastructure.
Press Releases 11/30/2016
Thune: Wilbur Ross Brings Exceptional Business Experience to the Dept. of Commerce
“Wilbur Ross will bring exceptional real-world business experience to the Department of Commerce as part of an administration that emphasizes job creation and the economy. I welcome the President-elect’s choice and expect the Senate Commerce Committee will expeditiously consider this nomination once the new Congress begins in January."
Press Releases 11/30/2016
Thune Statement on STB Action to Increase Transparency in Rail Industry
“These common-sense performance reporting requirements will bring greater transparency to the industry, which will in turn help everyone in the supply chain – from the producer all the way to the consumer.”
Press Releases 11/29/2016
Thune Statement on Naming of Elaine Chao as Secretary of Transportation Designee
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, released the following statement on President-elect Donald Trump’s intention to nominate Elaine Chao as the next Secretary of Transportation.
Press Releases 11/28/2016
Senate Sends Legislation Protecting Consumer Reviews to President
The U.S. Senate sent bicameral legislation to the White House for the President’s signature that will outlaw the use of “gag clauses” in non-negotiable form contracts. Some businesses have attracted national scrutiny for using gag clauses to punish or silence honest criticism of products and services.
Press Releases 11/22/2016
Upton & Thune Request Pause on Controversial Regulations
House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-Mich.) and Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.) today sent letters to both Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chairman Edith Ramirez and Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) Chairman Elliot Kaye requesting a pause on any controversial new regulations.
Press Releases 11/22/2016
Commerce Announces First Artificial Intelligence Hearing
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), chairman of the Subcommittee on Space, Science, and Competitiveness, will convene a hearing on Wednesday, November 30, 2016, at 2:30 p.m. on “The Dawn of Artificial Intelligence.” The hearing will conduct a broad overview of the state of artificial intelligence, including policy implications and effects on commerce.
Press Releases 11/15/2016
Thune Urges FCC to Stop Work on Controversial Items
Sen. John Thune, in a letter to Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Tom Wheeler, urged the agency to stop work on controversial new orders that could create confusion if reversed and would be subject to review next year.
Press Releases 11/10/2016
Commerce to Convene First Congressional Hearing on Augmented Reality
Expert witnesses testifying at the first congressional hearing on augmented reality will introduce to the committee the potential applications and policy considerations of this rapidly-developing technology.
Press Releases 10/6/2016
Thune Statement on FCC IG Report Concluding that Chairman Wheeler Initiated Lifeline Leak
Sen. John Thune issued the following statement on findings by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) inspector general that FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler authorized his staff to discreetly disclose details of non-public information to select media outlets about ongoing deliberations to reform the Lifeline program.
Press Releases 09/27/2016
Daines, Nelson: Hotel Patrons Should Be Protected from Online Booking Scams
U.S. Sens. Steve Daines (R-MT) and Bill Nelson (D-FL) introduced legislation to protect consumers from online booking scams. The lawmakers introduced the Stop Online Booking Scams Act that protects consumers from illegitimate third party websites that trick consumers into thinking they are making reservations directly with hotels.
Press Releases 09/22/2016
Surface Transportation and Maritime Security Act Addresses TSA Vulnerabilities
S. 3379, the Surface Transportation and Maritime Security Act, addresses deficiencies in the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) efforts to protect rail, transit, highway, and maritime passenger and freight transportation identified through congressional oversight and a recent report by the Department of Homeland Security inspector general.
Press Releases 09/21/2016
Commerce Approves NASA Transition Act, BOTS Act, and 3 Other Bills
The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation today approved five bills, including the NASA Transition Authorization Act which advances deep space exploration, the journey to Mars and the International Space Station for fiscal year 2017.
Press Releases 09/21/2016
Commerce Announces Second FTC Oversight Hearing on September 27 - Postponed
U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), chairman of the Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Insurance & Data Security, will convene a hearing on Tuesday, September 27, 2016,* at 2:00 p.m. entitled, “Oversight of the Federal Trade Commission: Perspectives From Beyond the Commission.”
Press Releases 09/20/2016
Thune Statement on the Release of Federal Automated Vehicles Guidelines
“As we move closer to a future of automated vehicles, regulators will need to oversee advancements in safety technology without hampering innovation,” said Thune.
Press Releases 09/16/2016
Commerce Committee Senators Introduce The NASA Transition Authorization Act of 2016
U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Tom Udall (D-N.M.) announced the introduction of S. 3346, The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Transition Authorization Act of 2016. The legislation provides stability for NASA to sustain and build upon existing national space investments designed to advance space exploration and science with an overall authorization level of $19.508 billion for fiscal year 2017.
Press Releases 09/15/2016
Thune and Nelson Statement on Inspector General Criticisms of TSA Risk Assessments
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), who serve respectively as the chairman and ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, issued the follow statements on a new report released today by the office of the Department of Homeland Security inspector general concluding that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), “lacks an intelligence-driven, risk-based security strategy that informs security and resource decisions across all transportation modes.”
Press Releases 09/9/2016
Nelson Statement on DHS Audit Questioning the Reliability of Background Checks for Port Workers
Press Releases 09/8/2016
Senate and House Chairs Call for Administration to Reconsider ICANN Internet Transition
Four congressional committee chairmen raised numerous concerns about plans for the Obama Administration to cede authority over the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) functions managed by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) and called for reconsideration of the transition, currently set to occur on October 1, 2016.
Press Releases 09/8/2016
Moran to Hold Hearing on “Ticket Bots” Legislation
The hearing will examine the growth of “ticket bot” software that circumvents fair access to concert, theater, and sporting event tickets for consumers. These bots allow ticket scalpers to purchase mass quantities of tickets for resale through third-party brokers at a much higher price to consumers.
Press Releases 09/1/2016
Five FCC Commissioners to Testify September 15
This hearing presents an opportunity to discuss concerns about partisanship affecting commission work and to raise issues on important policy questions under consideration this fall.
Press Releases 08/4/2016
Thune to Hold South Dakota Hearing on Freight Rail System
The hearing will focus on implementation of the recently-enacted Surface Transportation Board Reauthorization Act, the first reauthorization of the Surface Transportation Board (STB) since its creation two decades ago. Sen. Thune introduced this legislation to make the STB more efficient and effective.
Press Releases 07/20/2016
Mercedes-Benz, Ferrari and Daimler Vans join list of automakers selling new vehicles with defective Takata airbags
Press Releases 07/15/2016
Thune and Markey Explore How Wireless Carriers May Reduce Unwanted Calls and Texts
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Sen. Ed Markey (D-Mass.) sent a letter today to the Honorable Meredith Attwell Baker, the president and CEO of CTIA – The Wireless Association, on whether wireless carriers are in a unique position to reduce unwanted phone calls and text messages.
Press Releases 07/14/2016
Thune Seeks Answers from Elon Musk on Autopilot Technology
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, seeks answers from Elon Musk, chairman and chief executive officer at Tesla Motors, following the recent death of a driver while using the autopilot mode on a Tesla Model S.
Press Releases 07/13/2016
Congress Sends Pro-Security Aviation Bill to the President’s Desk
The bill will provide important safety, security, and time-sensitive improvements for the U.S. aviation system and awaits the president’s signature before the Federal Aviation Administration’s reauthorization deadline on Friday.
Press Releases 07/7/2016
Cruz Calls Hearing on Future of Space Under New Administration
The hearing will focus on the importance of ensuring consistency in policy to best leverage investments made in human space exploration. The hearing will also explore questions facing the agency related to the upcoming presidential transition.
Press Releases 07/6/2016
House and Senate Leaders’ Joint Statement on FAA Extension Agreement
House and Senate leaders announce a bipartisan, bicameral agreement on a Federal Aviation Administration extension that will provide important safety, security, and time-sensitive improvements for the U.S. aviation system.
Press Releases 07/6/2016
Thune: Congress Sending Pro-Security Aviation Bill to President by July 15
Now is the time to advance the bicameral, pro-security aviation bill to keep Americans safe.
Press Releases 07/6/2016
Thune Calls Hearing on FCC’s Proposal to Change Broadband Privacy Rules
The hearing will examine the Federal Communications Commission’s proposal to apply a new regime of privacy rules to broadband internet access providers.
Press Releases 06/29/2016
Commerce Committee Approves Gardner-Peters Bill to Keep America Competitive
The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee today approved the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act, legislation introduced by Senator Cory Gardner along with Senator Gary Peters, leaders of the Committee’s innovation and competitiveness working group on federal science and technology research policies.
Press Releases 06/29/2016
Key Senate Panel OKs Bill to Preserve Anglers Access to Biscayne National Park
Press Releases 06/28/2016
Nelson Statement on Volkswagen Diesel Emissions Settlement
Press Releases 06/23/2016
Senate Science and Technology Leaders Introduce the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act
The bipartisan bill maximizes basic research by reducing administrative burdens for researchers, enhancing agency oversight, improving research dissemination, and reforming federal science agencies to increase the impact of taxpayer-funded research.
Press Releases 06/21/2016
The Internet of Things: Modernizing Transportation and Infrastructure
The hearing will explore how businesses and government use new technologies, including the Internet of Things (IoT), to enhance the efficiency of infrastructure and transportation across the country. Witnesses have been asked to testify on their unique projects, successes, and challenges with utilizing IoT technology in the transportation sector.
Press Releases 06/20/2016
Committee Queries World Anti-Doping Agency on Enforcement Delays, Effectiveness
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, requested that World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) President Craig Reedie respond to questions following reports that WADA became aware of systematic cheating by the Russian Olympic team as early as 2010 but delayed investigative steps for years.
Press Releases 06/14/2016
Nelson Statement on D.C. Court of Appeals Net Neutrality Ruling
Press Releases 06/2/2016
Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx to Testify Before Commerce Committee
U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx will testify on implementation of the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, a bipartisan five-year reauthorization of surface transportation agencies and programs signed into law in December.
Press Releases 06/1/2016
Senate Report: Automakers Selling New Vehicles with Defective Takata Airbags
Press Releases 05/31/2016
Thune: New GAO Aviation Security Report Underscores Need for House Action on Senate’s Security Focused Aviation Bill
“Critical safety reforms, in a bill that passed the Senate 95-3, shouldn’t face substantial delays over provisions that do not have enough support to become law this year.”
Press Releases 05/23/2016
Thune Statement on Facebook Response to Questions About “Trending Topics” Bias Allegations
U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chairman John Thune (R-S.D.) released a statement regarding Facebook Inc.’s response to his letter sent following a report of Facebook employees excluding news stories on conservative political topics from its highly visible “Trending Topics” section while favoring liberal topics.
Press Releases 05/18/2016
Hearing to Examine IANA Transition to Global Multistakeholder Community
The hearing will examine the proposed transition of oversight of the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA), a department of the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) that allocates Internet IP addresses and domain names, to the global multistakeholder community.
Press Releases 05/18/2016
Subcommittee Hearing to Examine Improvements in Hurricane Forecasting
The subcommittee hearing will examine the National Hurricane Center's two new tools for the upcoming hurricane season: storm surge watches and warnings and maps of potential storm surges.
Press Releases 05/12/2016
Hearing to Examine Effects of 25-Year-Old Robocall Law on Modern Consumers and Businesses
The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will convene a full committee hearing titled “The Telephone Consumer Protection Act at 25: Effects on Consumers and Business” on Wednesday, May 18, 2016, at 10:00 a.m.
Press Releases 05/10/2016
Thune Seeks Answers from Facebook on Political Manipulation Allegations
U.S. Senator John Thune, chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today asked Facebook Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg to answer questions following reports that company employees actively suppressed news stories on topics of interest to politically conservative users of the social media platform.
Press Releases 05/10/2016
Thune and Gardner Question Excessive Consulting Fees Draining Rural Health Care Telecommunications Funds
“[W]e wish to express our concern that rate-payer dollars dedicated to programs under USAC’s stewardship, such as the Rural Health Care program, are going toward unnecessary or excessive consulting fees rather than their intended purpose – helping rural health care providers gain access to essential telecommunications and broadband services."
Press Releases 05/5/2016
Commerce Announces Hearing on Future of Science and Technology Policy
Witnesses have been asked to testify about ways to improve the roles of the federal government, private sector, and academia in science and technology research and development, STEM education and workforce, and the application of research and development to commercial uses.
Press Releases 04/29/2016
Senate Thanks Coast Guard Aviators for 100 Years of Service
“Aviators in the Coast Guard have risked their lives to rescue thousands of people during Hurricane Sandy, Hurricane Katrina, and other life-threatening events,” said Sen. Thune. “This resolution expresses our thanks to the brave aviators who serve in the Coast Guard for their heroic life-saving efforts and instrumental role in keeping our nation safe."
Press Releases 04/25/2016
Fischer Sets May 2 Nebraska Field Hearing on FAST Act Implementation
Press Releases 04/19/2016
Commerce Leaders Praise Passage of Security-Focused, Passenger-Friendly FAA Bill
A 95-3 vote sends the bill to the House of Representatives.
Press Releases 04/19/2016
Rail Customers Honor Thune for Improving Freight Rail Service
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, was honored last night with the first annual Murdo MacKenzie Award for advancing public policies that improve freight rail service and the American economy.
Press Releases 04/7/2016
Senate Adds Bipartisan Airport Security Enhancements to FAA Legislation
The Senate voted 85-10 to bolster airport security for passengers by adding an amendment to pending Senate legislation reauthorizing the Federal Aviation Administration through the end of fiscal year 2017.
Press Releases 04/6/2016
Nelson Statement on Report That Basic Safety Measures May Have Prevented Amtrak Crash
Press Releases 04/6/2016
U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson Responds to 10th U.S. Death Caused by Faulty Takata Airbag
Press Releases 04/6/2016
Nelson Speaks on FAA Reauthorization on the Senate Floor
Press Releases 04/6/2016
Nelson Floor Statement on FAA Reauthorization
Press Releases 03/29/2016
Sen. Nelson Reaction to FTC Move to Seek Compensation for Volkswagen Owners
Press Releases 03/16/2016
Commerce Approves FAA Reauthorization Bill
“Passage of this bipartisan legislation is a win for airline passenger rights, advancing responsible drone usage, boosting the competitiveness of the aerospace industry, and making our skies safer,” said Chairman John Thune.
Press Releases 03/14/2016
Self-Driving Cars Exhibit Outside Senate Dirksen Building
Press Releases 03/9/2016
Commerce Leaders Introduce FAA Reauthorization Bill
The legislation updates the safety and privacy framework to further drone development, offers reforms to help our aerospace industry better compete in a global economy, improves aviation safety, and expands consumer protections for airline passengers.
Press Releases 03/8/2016
Commerce Announces Hearing on Self-Driving Vehicles
The hearing will explore advancements in autonomous vehicle technology and its anticipated benefits for Americans.
Press Releases 03/7/2016
Thune Announces FCC Reauthorization Act Introduction
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D) announced the introduction of the FCC Reauthorization Act of 2016. Congress approved the last reauthorization of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in 1990.
Press Releases 03/3/2016
Commerce Approves MOBILE NOW Act and Nominations
The Senate Commerce Committee approved the MOBILE NOW Act to boost the development of next-generation 5G wireless broadband by ensuring more spectrum is made available for commercial use and reducing the red tape for building wireless networks.
Press Releases 02/23/2016
Congressional Investigation Finds Widespread Manipulation of Takata Airbag Inflator Test Data
Press Releases 02/18/2016
Commerce Announces Subcommittee Hearing on Passenger Rail
Press Releases 02/17/2016
Commerce Announces Subcommittee Hearing on Fisheries Management Law
Press Releases 02/11/2016
Nelson Statement on NTSB’s Launch of a Second Search Mission to find El Faro’s Voyage Data Recorder
Press Releases 02/11/2016
Committee Leaders Introduce Bipartisan MOBILE NOW Act
“The MOBILE NOW Act is our passport to a 5G future of gigabit wireless connectivity,” said Thune.
Press Releases 02/10/2016
Legislation Introduced to Give FAA Power to Ban Potentially Dangerous Lithium-ion Battery Shipments
Press Releases 02/10/2016
Nelson Presses NHTSA to Speed Up Phase Out of Takata Ammonium Nitrate Airbag Inflators
Press Releases 02/9/2016
Coast Guard Reauthorization Enacted into Law
President Obama signed into law H.R. 4188, the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2015. The bill will reauthorize the Coast Guard for two years.
Press Releases 02/8/2016
Five FCC Commissioners to Testify March 2
“From video policy to spectrum, the FCC’s decisions have an enormous effect on the future of our technology economy,” said Thune. “This hearing presents an opportunity for committee members to raise issues with the agency’s top decision makers and evaluate the need for legislative initiatives.”
Press Releases 02/5/2016
Senator Seeks to Boost Anti-Drone Technologies at Airports
Press Releases 01/21/2016
Senators Ask White House For Comprehensive Crumb Rubber Turf Study
Press Releases 01/14/2016
Lawmaker Wants New Search for El Faro Data Recorder
Press Releases 01/11/2016
Congress Approves First-Ever Bill Regulating Liquid Nicotine
Press Releases 12/16/2015
NASA Gets Boost in Congressional Budget Deal
Press Releases 12/14/2015
Senate Passes Bill to Protect Consumers and Integrity of Online Reviews
The U.S. Senate passed by unanimous consent S. 2044, the Consumer Review Freedom Act.
Press Releases 12/11/2015
Senate Approves Bill to Child-Proof Liquid Nicotine Bottles
Press Releases 12/9/2015
Commerce Committee Approves Legislation to Tighten Screening for Airport Workers
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), the chairman and ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, along with Sens. Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) the chair and ranking member of the Aviation Subcommittee today voted in committee to approve S. 2361, the Airport Security Enhancement and Oversight Act, which they jointly introduced.
Press Releases 12/4/2015
Senator to Offer Legislation that Would Strengthen Security at Nation’s Airports
Press Releases 12/3/2015
Thune Statement on Passage of Five-Year Transportation Bill
“This five-year transportation strategy provides the stability needed to spur growth and enhance the safety of our nation’s transportation system,” said Thune.
Press Releases 12/3/2015
Nelson: Florida to Benefit From Multi-Year $305-Billion Highway Bill
Press Releases 12/2/2015
Cruz Calls Subcommittee Hearing on Climate Change
U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), chairman of the Subcommittee on Space, Science, and Competitiveness, will convene a hearing titled “Data or Dogma? Promoting Open Inquiry in the Debate over the Magnitude of Human Impact on Earth’s Climate."
Press Releases 12/1/2015
Nelson Statement on Congressional Agreement to Increase Compensation for Philadelphia Amtrak Victims
Press Releases 12/1/2015
Thune and Nelson Statements on Five-Year Surface Transportation Bill
U.S. Sens. John Thune (R-S.D.) and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), the chairman and ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation released statements on the conference committee agreement on the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act – a five-year surface transportation reauthorization bill which includes many key provisions approved by the committee earlier this summer.
Press Releases 11/6/2015
Nelson Presses Airlines on Increased Holiday Bag Fees
Press Releases 11/4/2015
Blumenthal, Nelson Demand Independent Federal Investigation into Health Risks from Children's Playgrounds and Artificial Turfs Made with Crumb Rubber from Scrap Tires
Press Releases 10/22/2015
Senate Commerce Leaders Press Takata on Recent Side Airbag Ruptures
Press Releases 10/20/2015
Gardner and Peters Continue Efforts to Strengthen American R&D Policy, Competitiveness
Press Releases 10/14/2015
Bipartisan Senate & House Tech Leaders Press Commerce Dept., FTC on Need to Protect Data Flows in Wake of European ‘Safe Harbor’ Ruling
Press Releases 10/7/2015
Senators Demand Answers from T-Mobile and Experian Following Security Breach of 15 Million Customers’ Personal Data, Including Social Security Numbers
Press Releases 10/2/2015
Senators Press Used Car Dealers on Vehicle Recall Repairs
Press Releases 09/25/2015
A Commerce Committee Bill Signed Into Law
On September 24th, President Obama signed into law S. 1359, The E-Warranty Act of 2015. The E-Warranty Act, was introduced by U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) and Bill Nelson (D-Fla.). This bill modernizes warranty requirements and allow manufacturers to save paper and printing costs by posting warranties online.
Press Releases 09/22/2015
Lawmaker Wants Feds to Investigate Volkswagen Marketing
Press Releases 09/17/2015
Thune, Schatz, and Moran Introduce Bill to Protect Consumers from Fines for Negative Online Reviews
The Consumer Review Freedom Act protects consumers from being penalized for writing negative online reviews.
Press Releases 08/6/2015
Senate Report Takes Aim at Airline Transparency
Press Releases 07/22/2015
Gardner and Peters Kick Off Discussions Aimed at Strengthening American Competitiveness
Press Releases 07/9/2015
Senate Lawmakers Propose Sweeping Auto Safety Reforms
Press Releases 07/7/2015
Witnesses to Testify on Unlocking the Cures for America’s Most Deadly Diseases
Press Releases 06/22/2015
New Congressional Report on Auto Airbag Scandal Details Lapses at Takata
Press Releases 06/18/2015
Thune and Wicker Statement on Lifeline Program Expansion
Press Releases 06/17/2015
Nelson Seeks Answers from Google on YouTube Kids App Content
Press Releases 06/11/2015
Nelson Statement on Net Neutrality Court Decision
Press Releases 06/11/2015
Moran Convenes Oversight Hearing on Consumer Product Safety Commission
Press Releases 06/4/2015
Thune Sets Passenger Rail Safety Hearing
Press Releases 05/19/2015
Nelson Statement on Additional Takata Airbag Recalls
Press Releases 05/18/2015
Nelson Wants Congress to Make Sure Amtrak Crash Victims Not Wronged by Outdated Liability Cap
Press Releases 05/13/2015
Rubio Calls Subcommittee Hearing on Fishery Data Collection
Sen. Rubio will convene a hearing on fishery management and data collection.
Press Releases 05/13/2015
Thune and Nelson Statement on Deadly Amtrak Derailment
Chairman Thune and Ranking Member Nelson issue joint statement on fatal Amtrack derailment.
Press Releases 05/13/2015
Hearing: Examining Air Traffic Control Reform
Press Releases 04/30/2015
Nelson Seeks New Political Ad Disclosure Rules
Press Releases 04/27/2015
Nelson Floor Remarks on Latest Takata Incidents
Press Releases 04/14/2015
Nelson Presses FAA Chief About Screening of Employees at Airports
Press Releases 03/27/2015
Thune Statement on Senate Vote to Approve Open Internet Amendment
Press Releases 03/4/2015
Feds Asked to Investigate Imported Laminate Flooring
Press Releases 03/2/2015
Thune and Nelson Send Joint Letter on FAA Vulnerabilities
Press Releases 02/26/2015
Commerce Committee Approves Bipartisan Motor Vehicle Safety Whistleblower Act
The bill would allow employees or contractors to receive a portion of the monetary penalties resulting from an enforcement action.
Press Releases 02/26/2015
Nelson Statement on FCC’s Approval of Net Neutrality Rules
Press Releases 02/26/2015
Bill Aimed at Liquid Nicotine Clears Major Congressional Hurdle
Press Releases 02/25/2015
Nelson: Lawmakers must grapple with privacy questions raised by new surveillance technology
WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) said in a speech on the Senate floor today that the proliferation of software and spy devices poses a grave threat to consumers’ cellphone and Internet privacy, so much so that lawmakers are going to have to grapple with and find new ways to curb the increasing intrusions. Nelson also reiterated his call for a Federal Communications Commission (FCC) review of the latest such device to stir controversy, something called a StingRay, which lets police monitor thousands of he calls without a warrant. "It's time for us to stand up for the individual citizen of this country and their right to privacy," Nelson said in his speech.
Press Releases 02/20/2015
Commerce Committee Leaders: ‘Takata Must Do Everything Possible to Aid Federal Safety Regulators’
Statement on the Dept. of Transportation’s decision to fine Takata for failure to fully cooperate with a safety investigation
Press Releases 02/18/2015
Thune and Nelson Request Financial Management Documents from the National Science Foundation
According to the NSF inspector general, the agency lacked sufficient cost information to ensure that project construction budgets were a fair and reasonable cost billed to taxpayers.
Press Releases 02/12/2015
Nelson Announces Commerce Democratic Subcommittee Assignments
Press Releases 02/6/2015
Lawmakers Call on Feds to Investigate Use of Supercookies
Press Releases 02/5/2015
Rubio, Thune, and Nelson Introduce Legislation to Set a National Standard for Small Vessel Discharges
Rubio, Thune, and Nelson introduce S.373, the Vessel Incidental Discharge Act.
Press Releases 02/4/2015
Nelson Statement on FCC Chairman's Net Neutrality Proposal
Press Releases 01/30/2015
After Another Takata Airbag-Related Death, Nelson, Blumenthal, Markey, Call on NHTSA Administrator to Provide Update on Recalls, Service Campaigns Related to Airbag Manufacturer
Press Releases 01/30/2015
Senators press Verizon over privacy concerns
Press Releases 01/30/2015
Nelson: Airbag injuries higher than thought
Press Releases 01/29/2015
Thune and Nelson Reintroduce Legislation to Incentivize Auto Industry Whistleblowers who Bring Serious Safety Defects to Light
U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-S.D.) and U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.) today reintroduced S. 304, the Motor Vehicle Safety Whistleblower Act.
Press Releases 01/27/2015
Bipartisan Commerce Committee Letter asks President for TSA Nominee
Senators urge President Barack Obama to, “prioritize the formal nomination of a qualified, experienced, and dedicated individual to serve as Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).”
Press Releases 01/26/2015
Subcommittee to Convene Hearing on Surface Transportation Network
U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) will convene the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security on Thursday, January 29, 2015, at 10:00 a.m.
Press Releases 01/13/2015
Child's death brings urgency to liquid-nicotine regulation
Press Releases 01/13/2015
Nelson Pushing Consumer Data Protection
Press Releases 12/15/2014
Thune Welcomes Commerce Committee Members for the 114th Congress
Press Releases 12/12/2014
Rockefeller and Thune Call on the President to Sign Anti-Doping Reauthorization Bill Into Law
Press Releases 12/12/2014
Rockefeller, Thune Statement on Passage of Commerce Cybersecurity Bill
Press Releases 12/11/2014
Rockefeller Commends FCC Vote to Raise E-Rate Funding Cap
Press Releases 12/10/2014
Senate and House Leaders Issue Statement on Passage of Bipartisan Coast Guard Authorization
Press Releases 12/10/2014
Following Commerce Committee Hearing on Domestic Assault in Pro Sports, NFL Issues New Personal Conduct Policy
Press Releases 12/9/2014
Rockefeller Statement on Commerce Department Inspector General Report on FirstNet
Press Releases 12/2/2014
Commerce Committee Announces Off the Floor Executive Session to Consider Nominations
Press Releases 12/2/2014
Thune Statement at Hearing on Domestic Violence in Professional Sports
Press Releases 12/2/2014
Rockefeller: Professional Sports Leagues Must Do More to Address Domestic Violence
Press Releases 12/1/2014
Congressional Leaders Announce Bicameral, Bipartisan Agreement on Coast Guard Authorization
Press Releases 12/1/2014
Rockefeller, Nelson Request Information, Documents from Honda President
Press Releases 11/25/2014
Rockefeller Statement on Honda's Failure to Accurately Report Injuries, Deaths Linked to Its Vehicles
Press Releases 11/25/2014
Rockefeller, Nelson Request Information, Documents from Takata CEO Regarding Defective Airbags
Press Releases 11/20/2014
Thune, Nelson Introduce Legislation to Help Prevent Auto Injuries, Deaths From Faulty Parts by Incentivizing Whistleblowers
Press Releases 11/20/2014
Rockefeller: Takata, Automakers Must Take Responsibility and Action for Deadly Airbag Defect
Press Releases 11/20/2014
Thune Opening Statement at Commerce Hearing on Takata Air Bag Defects
Press Releases 11/19/2014
Thune Statement on NHTSA Nomination
Press Releases 11/17/2014
Rockefeller Statement on FCC E-Rate Announcement
Press Releases 11/14/2014
Commerce Committee Nominations Hearing Postponed
Press Releases 11/12/2014
House and Senate Republicans Warn FCC Against Regulating Internet Like a 20th Century Monopoly
Press Releases 11/10/2014
Thune Statement on President’s Net Neutrality Announcement
Press Releases 11/10/2014
Rockefeller Statement on Net Neutrality
Press Releases 10/27/2014
Rockefeller Praises DOT Action to Give Consumers Reliable Information About Cruise Vacations
Press Releases 10/23/2014
Rockefeller Raises Questions Over WhisperText's Privacy Practices
Press Releases 10/16/2014
Rockefeller Statement on Retirement of John Pistole
Press Releases 10/8/2014
Rockefeller Statement on Major Cramming Settlement Between AT&T, FTC, FCC, and 51 Attorneys General
Press Releases 09/18/2014
Rockefeller, McCaskill, Booker Press NCAA's Big Five Conference Schools for Answers on Treatment of Student-Athletes
Press Releases 09/17/2014
Rockefeller, Thune Issue Joint Statement on Committee Passage of the Satellite Television Access and Viewer Rights Act
Press Releases 09/9/2014
Rockefeller Urges Surface Transportation Board to Address Needs of Businesses, Consumers in Evaluating Revenue Adequacy
Press Releases 09/5/2014
Rockefeller, Thune to Introduce Bill to Strengthen the Surface Transportation Board
Press Releases 09/4/2014
Rockefeller Responds to Recent Data Security Incidents
Press Releases 07/30/2014
Thune Wireless Phone Bill Cramming Hearing Statement
Press Releases 07/17/2014
Thune Questions GM and Delphi Executives on Ignition Switch Recall
Press Releases 07/15/2014
Thune Bipartisan Bill to Permanently Block Taxes on Internet Access Overwhelmingly Passes House
Press Releases 07/10/2014
Thune, Klobuchar Lead Bipartisan Group of Senators in Calling for Consumer-Friendly Labeling of Liquefied Natural Gas Fuel
Press Releases 07/9/2014
Thune Statement Ahead of FCC E-Rate Vote
Press Releases 07/9/2014
Thune Statement on NCAA Sports and Success of College Athletes Hearing
Press Releases 06/26/2014
Rockefeller Introduces Bill to Boost NHTSA's Resources and Safety Capabilities
Press Releases 06/25/2014
Thune Calls for 21st Century Updates to Communications and Internet Policy in Speech to Free State Foundation
Press Releases 06/19/2014
Bipartisan Group Presses For Floor Action on Permanent Internet Access Tax Moratorium Bill
Press Releases 06/18/2014
Thune E-Cigarette Youth Marketing Hearing Statement
Press Releases 06/11/2014
Thune Nominations Hearing Statement
Press Releases 06/5/2014
Thune Lauds FCC Rural Call Completion Enforcement
Press Releases 05/28/2014
Rockefeller Statement Ahead of the White House Summit on Youth Sports Safety and Concussions
Press Releases 05/22/2014
Thune Calls on Congress to Permanently Stop Taxes on Internet Access
Press Releases 05/21/2014
Thune Medical Loss Ratio Hearing Statement
Press Releases 05/19/2014
Rockefeller Statement on Proposed AT&T, DirecTV Merger
Press Releases 05/15/2014
Rockefeller Statement on FCC Open Internet Vote
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today released the following statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted to proceed with a proposed rule making to protect a free and open Internet.
Press Releases 05/14/2014
Bipartisan Senate Leaders: FCC Must Maximize Spectrum Auction Participation and Revenue
Press Releases 05/13/2014
Senate Republican Leaders to FCC: Leave Internet Open and Free
Press Releases 05/13/2014
Rockefeller, McCaskill, Booker Examine Possible Exploitation of Student-Athletes
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), Jay Rockefeller, (D-W.V.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) have called on the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) to exercise better oversight of its member institutions to ensure that they are taking the necessary steps to protect student-athletes from exploitation. The Senators’ joint letter requests information that will help shed light on the NCAA’s current policies and practices.
Press Releases 05/9/2014
Rockefeller, Blumenthal, Markey Call on Coast Guard to Make Cruise Ship Inspection Information Available to Public
WASHINGTON, D.C.--In a letter to U.S. Coast Guard Admiral Robert Papp, Jr., Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.V.) and U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) called on the Coast Guard to detail how it plans to use inspection information to hold cruise ships with safety problems accountable. The senators also requested that such information be made available to the public over the Internet. The letter comes on the heels of the Coast Guard’s recent decision to conduct unannounced inspections of cruise ships that have exhibited a history of safety problems.
Press Releases 05/7/2014
Rockefeller: Congress Must Find Long-Term Solution for Funding Surface Transportation Programs
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, "Surface Transportation Reauthorization: Progress, Challenges, and Next Steps." Below are his prepared remarks: