Press Releases

Press Releases 03/15/2011
Rockefeller Urges Insurance Commissioners to Preserve the Strong Consumer Protections in the Health Care Reform Law
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, sent a letter today to the President of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) urging state insurance regulators to oppose giving health insurance agents and brokers a special exemption from an important pro-consumer provision of the health care reform law. The letter provides a detailed analysis of why exempting agent and broker commissions from the law’s “minimum medical loss ratio” requirements could cost individuals and businesses more than a billion dollars in lost rebates and premiums reductions. The National Association of Health Underwriters (NAHU) and Florida Insurance Commissioner Kevin McCarty are lobbying NAIC members to endorse this special agent and broker exemption at the NAIC’s upcoming meeting in Austin, Texas.
Press Releases 03/11/2011
Rockefeller Disappointed By Breakdown of NFL Negotiations
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released the following statement after the National Football League’s Players Association filed to decertify:
Press Releases 03/11/2011
Rockefeller Says Japan Tsunami Is a Reminder That Gutting Essential NOAA Prediction Programs Would Be Disastrous
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today expressed his sorrow and condolences to the people affected by the horrific tsunami in Japan and pressed for continued investments in America’s premier weather prediction and ocean science agency, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA):
Press Releases 03/10/2011
Rockefeller Urges Senators to Support Public Safety Communications Legislation Before the Ten Year Anniversary of 9/11
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today spoke on the floor of the U.S. Senate urging Members of Congress to pass legislation that would provide public safety officials with the spectrum they need to communicate during emergencies. The Chairman’s remarks as prepared for delivery follow:
Press Releases 03/10/2011
Key Quotes from Today's Nominations Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on nominations.
Press Releases 03/10/2011
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks at Today's Nominations Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today we will consider four nominations. While normally we would start with the nominees who report to the president, I’ve decided to run today’s hearing a bit differently.
Press Releases 03/9/2011
Rockefeller Praises Locke, Encourages White House to Name Agressive Commerce Secretary
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, released the following statement after President Obama named Commerce Department Secretary Gary Locke to be U.S. Ambassador to China:
Press Releases 03/8/2011
Key Quotes from Today's Hearing to Review the Department of Transportation Fiscal Year 2012 Budget
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today to review the Department of Transportation fiscal year 2012 budget.
Press Releases 03/8/2011
Hutchison, Thune Applaud Administration Decision to Revisit PTC Railroad Regulations
Press Releases 03/8/2011
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks at Hearing to Review the Department of Transportation FY2012 Budget
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Infrastructure development has played an integral part to our nation’s expansion, economic development and growth. I think it is important to note that the federal government has always been the driving force in the development of our transportation networks – from the first outlays of money to build canals in the early days of the Republic, to creating the conditions for the development of railroads in the 19th century, to the development of the interstate highway and aviation system in the 20th century.
Press Releases 03/8/2011
Key Quotes from Today's Hearing on Implementation of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard Subcommittee hearing today titled Implementation of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act.
Press Releases 03/8/2011
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Implementation of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—First, I want to congratulate Senator Begich, the new Chairman of this subcommittee, Senator Snowe, the returning Ranking Member, and welcome all the new and returning members of this subcommittee. The Coast Guard, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and our oceans are in very good hands here.
Press Releases 03/3/2011
Rockefeller Says Balance in America's Freight Rail Network Must Be Restored
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) released a report on the quality of service provided to rail shippers:
Press Releases 03/3/2011
Chairman Rockefeller Urges NFL, Players to Keep Talks Going
WASHINGTON, D.C.–Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released this statement urging the NFL and players to temporarily extend the current collective bargaining agreement (CBA)–and buy more time for negotiations:
Press Releases 03/3/2011
Rockefeller, Lautenberg Lead Effort to Reject Republican Cuts to Passenger Rail Service and Amtrak
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.) and Surface Transportation Subcommittee Chairman Frank R. Lautenberg (D-N.J.) today called on Senate Appropriations Committee leaders to protect funding for Amtrak, high-speed rail corridors and intercity passenger rail service, which are under attack by House Republicans. Lautenberg is the author of the 2008 Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act to enhance Amtrak and broaden the passenger rail programs.
Press Releases 03/2/2011
Quotes from Today's Hearing on the Future of American Manufacturing: Maintaining America's Competitive Edge
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today titled, The Future of American Manufacturing: Maintaining America's Competitive Edge.
Press Releases 03/2/2011
Rockefeller Says Budget Should Not Defund Consumer Safety Priorities
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today called a proposal to cut funding for a product safety database not only a “bad idea” but a “bum deal for American consumers.”
Press Releases 03/2/2011
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on the Future of American Manufacturing: Maintaining America's Competitive Edge
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Welcome to today’s hearing. I’m pleased Commerce Secretary Gary Locke is here to share his ideas on the future of American manufacturing. I’d also like to welcome Congressman Steny Hoyer. As House Minority Whip, Congressman Hoyer has been leading the charge to strengthen America’s middle class by “Making it in America” again.
Press Releases 03/1/2011
Senators Brown and Hutchison Introduce Bipartisan Motorcoach Safety Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) announced that tomorrow, on the 4th anniversary of the Bluffton University motorcoach crash that claimed seven lives, they will reintroduce legislation to strengthen bus safety and improve driver training to reduce the number of motorcoach crashes and related fatalities. Brown and Hutchison have introduced the legislation together in the previous two Congresses. U.S. Congressman John Lewis (GA-5) is introducing a companion bill in the House of Representatives.
Press Releases 02/25/2011
Rockefeller and Hutchison Announce Subcommittee Assignments
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.) and Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas) today announced the full list of subcommittee assignments for the 112th Congress:
Press Releases 02/25/2011
Rockefeller Op-Ed Asks NFL to Show Good Faith Effort to Break Labor Impasse
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today encouraged National Football League (NFL) Commissioner Roger Goodell to find a way to give the NFL Player’s Association more information on the league’s finances. In a Washington Post op-ed published today, the senator said this gesture could help avert a strike. Today’s column comes amid new reports of stalled collective bargaining negotiations between team owners and NFL players.
Press Releases 02/17/2011
Rockefeller, Hutchison Say FAA Passage Will Create Jobs, Make Air Travel Safer
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Commerce Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.) and Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas) issued the following statements after Senate passage of the FAA Air Transportation Modernization and Safety Improvement Act. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 87-8.
Press Releases 02/17/2011
Commerce Expands Deposition Procedures as Part of Aggressive Oversight Role for 112th Session
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation today held a business meeting to approve new expedited procedures to conduct witness depositions. Under the new rules, Chairman Rockefeller can now authorize committee staff to interview witnesses under oath during committee investigations. The new rules also give Republican Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison and her staff the right to participate in these depositions.
Press Releases 02/17/2011
Rockefeller and Hutchison Announce Subcommittee Chairs and Ranking Members
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.) and Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas) today announced the Subcommittee Chairmen and Ranking Members for the 112th Congress.
Press Releases 02/16/2011
Republican Leader Joins with Senators Hutchison and Ensign on Resolution of Disapproval to Repeal FCC’s Internet Regulations
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today joined with Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and Senator John Ensign (R-Nev.) to introduce a resolution of disapproval under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) to repeal net neutrality regulations recently adopted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). A companion measure was introduced in the House by Energy and Commerce Chairman Fred Upton (R-Mich.) and Representative Greg Walden (R-Ore.). The Senate resolution is cosponsored by thirty-nine Republican senators.
Press Releases 02/16/2011
Hutchison Says First Responders Must Have Access to 21st Century Communications
WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a Committee hearing today on building a nationwide public safety network, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, said America’s first responders must have access to 21st century wireless communications.
Press Releases 02/16/2011
Quotes from Today's Hearing on Safeguarding Our Future: Building a Nationwide Network for First Responders
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today titled, Safeguarding Our Future: Building a Nationwide Network for First Responders.
Press Releases 02/16/2011
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Safeguarding Our Future: Building a Nationwide Network for First Responders
WASHINGTON, D.C.—This fall marks the tenth anniversary of 9/11. Despite the passage of time, the horror and the deep sadness that marks that day has not faded from our national consciousness. And that’s appropriate, because these are wounds that even if they heal will always cause us pain.
Press Releases 02/15/2011
Rockefeller's Bill Gains Support of Every Major National Public Safety Organization
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Support for Chairman Rockefeller’s Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act (S. 28) continues to grow. The Chairman's proposal to allocate 10 megahertz of the 700 MHz spectrum known as the "D-block" to public safety officials for a nationwide, interoperable, wireless broadband network has been embraced by national and local public safety organizations.
Press Releases 02/11/2011
Rockefeller and Lautenberg Statement on Need for Increased Pipeline Safety
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.) and Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-N.J.), longtime Chairman of the Surface Transportation Subcommittee, today released a joint statement about the need for increased pipeline safety oversight following two gas pipeline explosions this week: one in Allentown, Pa., that resulted in five deaths, and another in Columbiana County, Ohio. In addition, a September 2010 gas pipeline explosion killed eight people in a San Bruno, Calif. neighborhood.
Press Releases 02/11/2011
Reviews Are in on the Rockefeller Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV recently reintroduced legislation to promote smart and efficient use of the nation’s radio airwaves and provide first responders and public safety officials with additional wireless resources to keep America safe. The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), and Benjamin L. Cardin (D-Md.).
Press Releases 02/10/2011
Rockefeller Statement Following President Obama's Commitment to Communications for First Responders
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released the following statement today after President Obama committed to developing and deploying a nationwide wireless broadband network for public safety:
Press Releases 02/10/2011
Rockefeller, Lautenberg Legislation Will Reform America's Rail, Highway and Waterway Systems
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.) and Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-N.J.), longtime Chairman of the Surface Transportation Subcommittee, today will reintroduce legislation to establish a transportation policy to meet America’s 21st century needs. Their bill, the Federal Surface Transportation Policy and Planning Act of 2011, would establish a clear set of goals and objectives for the Department of Transportation (DOT) to develop a surface transportation system that advances our nation’s economic, energy, and national security interests. The bill would accomplish this chiefly by establishing performance criteria to optimize implementation of DOT goals, by improving data collection, and by requiring States to report on the use of their Federal funding.
Press Releases 02/8/2011
Rockefeller Says NHTSA Efforts to Implement Provisions of His Motor Vehicle Safety Legislation Will Make American Roads Safer
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today applauded the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for taking steps to improve vehicle safety on America’s roadways. NHTSA’s announcement comes after NASA released its findings of an investigation into sudden unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles.
Press Releases 02/8/2011
Rockefeller Applauds Obama Administration High-Speed Rail and Infrastructure Investment Plan
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released the following statement today after Vice President Joe Biden and Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood announced a six year plan to build out America’s high-speed rail network and lay the groundwork for long-term infrastructure investment:
Press Releases 02/8/2011
Rockefeller Applauds FCC's Vote to Move Forward on USF Reform
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today issued this statement after the FCC voted to initiate a rulemaking to reform the Universal Service Fund (USF):
Press Releases 02/8/2011
Hutchison Introduces Bill to Reform Rail Regulations, While Maintaining System Safety
WASHINGTON, D.C. –Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today introduced legislation that would reform the Positive Train Control (PTC) regulatory mandate to reduce compliance costs, while maintaining a safe rail system. The legislation is cosponsored by Senators John Thune (R-S.D.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Tom Coburn (R-Okla.). PTC is an automated technology that is capable of preventing train collisions, overspeed derailments and injuries to railroad employees. In 2008, Congress required the railroads to implement PTC technology on rail lines that carry passengers or certain types of very toxic chemicals by December 2015.
Press Releases 02/4/2011
Hutchison: TSA Decision on Collective Bargaining Will Hurt Security Mission
WASHINGTON, D.C. –Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today said that the Transportation Security Administrator’s decision to allow collective bargaining for airport screeners would hurt the agency’s fundamental security mission.
Press Releases 02/3/2011
Rockefeller Vows to Fight Any Proposal to End Essential Air Service Program
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today vowed to fight “tooth and nail” to protect the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, a program that provides critical funding to support commercial air service to underserved, rural communities across the country. Senator John McCain (R-Ariz.) has introduced an amendment to end the job-supporting EAS program.
Press Releases 02/3/2011
Lautenberg, Rockefeller Introduce Critical Pipeline Safety Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-N.J.), Chairman of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, and Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.), Chairman of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, introduced legislation to improve pipeline safety efforts nationwide. The bill strengthens pipeline safety oversight by the federal government and addresses long-standing safety issues, including the use of automatic shutoff valves and excess flow valves.
Press Releases 02/1/2011
Rockefeller Says Health Care Reform Vote Should Not Hijack FAA Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, released the following statement today striking back at the Republican plan to repeal the health care reform law on the back of the FAA Reauthorization bill. The FAA Reauthorization bill is the first jobs bill of the 112th Congress.
Press Releases 02/1/2011
Rockefeller Says Consumers Will Benefit from FAA Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Commerce Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today joined several other Senate Democrats and the president of the U.S. Travel Association at a press conference to discuss the benefits the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization bill will provide to consumers. The legislation is the first jobs bill of the 112th Congress.
Press Releases 01/31/2011
Rockefeller's FAA Bill Will Create Jobs and Support Local Communities
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Commerce Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today touted the economic benefits of his FAA bill – the first jobs bill of the 112th Congress. The comprehensive, bipartisan, job-creating legislation passed the U.S. Senate last year, 93-0.
Press Releases 01/28/2011
Hutchison Statement on the 25th Anniversary of Challenger Accident
Press Releases 01/28/2011
Chairman Rockefeller Introduces Legislation to Improve Air Safety, Modernize Nation's Air Traffic Control System
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation has introduced the FAA Air Transportation Modernization and Safety Improvement Act. It is the same bill that passed the U.S. Senate last year, 93-0.
Press Releases 01/27/2011
Rockefeller Bill Provides Relief to Families of Deepwater Horizon Victims
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV introduced legislation to provide relief to families of those killed and injured in the Deepwater Horizon explosion last year. The legislation, known as the Deepwater Horizon Survivors’ Fairness Act, fixes loopholes in liability statutes so that victims’ families can receive the same compensation available to survivors of those injured or killed in accidents on land. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.).
Press Releases 01/26/2011
Rockefeller Says His Railroad Reform Bill Will Increase Competition - Helping Consumers and Shippers
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today said that his bill to reform the rail industry will improve rail service, create new jobs and make the industry and U.S. goods more competitive both here and abroad.
Press Releases 01/25/2011
Rockefeller Praises President Obama's State of the Union Priorities
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV tonight praised the priorities outlined in President Obama’s State of the Union address. The Senator also announced the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee will hold a hearing on boosting American manufacturing in the coming weeks as part of a larger effort to emphasize innovation and an economic revival.
Press Releases 01/25/2011
Rockefeller Reintroduces Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today reintroduced the Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act, a bill to promote smart and efficient use of the nation’s radio airwaves and provide first responders and public safety officials with additional wireless resources to keep America safe. The legislation is cosponsored by Senators Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Frank Lautenberg (D-N.J.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tom Harkin (D-Iowa), and Benjamin L. Cardin (D-Md.).
Press Releases 01/21/2011
Rockefeller, Waxman Statement on Verizon's Net Neutrality Appeal
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Representative Henry A. Waxman, Ranking Member of the U.S. House Committee on Energy and Commerce, released the following statement after Verizon Communications filed an appeal challenging the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) Report and Order on Net neutrality rules:
Press Releases 01/20/2011
Chairman Rockefeller Announces Legislative Agenda for 2011
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today announced his priorities and goals for the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation in the 112th Congress:
Press Releases 01/18/2011
Rockefeller Statement on FCC Approval of Comcast-NBC Universal Merger
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released this statement after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the merger of Comcast Corporation and NBC Universal:
Press Releases 01/14/2011
Rockefeller and Lautenberg Statements on Rail Safety Technology Report
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-N.J.), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security, today responded to the Government Accountability Office (GAO)’s report on rail safety technology. The report assesses the Federal Railroad Administration’s and the rail industry’s progress implementing positive train control (PTC), a system designed to prevent accidents, and evaluates the benefits and challenges of implementing other rail safety technologies.
Press Releases 01/14/2011
Rockefeller Statement on Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison's Decision Not to Seek Reelection
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison announced her decision not to seek reelection in 2012:
Press Releases 01/12/2011
Senate Commerce Committee Members Respond to NASA Report
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senate Commerce Committee Members, including Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.), Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Senator Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), and Senator David Vitter (R-La.), today issued a joint statement responding to a NASA report this week in which the space agency says it cannot build a capsule and heavy-lift rocket based on the cost and schedule outlined by Congress:
Press Releases 01/12/2011
Rockefeller and Snowe Ask NASA to Eliminate Waste and Fraud in SBIR Program
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senator Olympia Snowe (R-Maine), Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, today responded to the NASA Inspector General’s audit of its Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program. The audit found that NASA is wasting more than $2 million a year in SBIR funds because it does not have adequate financial controls in place to safeguard taxpayer dollars.
Press Releases 01/11/2011
Rockefeller Statement on STB Announcement to Hold Public Hearing on Competitiveness in the Rail Industry
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement today following the Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) announcement to hold a public hearing on the state of competition in America’s railroad industry:
Press Releases 12/21/2010
Hutchison Statement on Nomination of Ms. Ann Begeman to the Surface Transportation Board
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today made the following statement after President Barack Obama nominated Ms. Ann D. Begeman, current Republican Staff Director of the Commerce Committee, to be a member of the Surface Transportation Board. Ms. Begeman was nominated for a Republican slot on the Board that oversees railroad rate and service disputes.
Press Releases 12/21/2010
Hutchison Lauds Measure to Boost Math and Science Education
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today praised Congressional passage of legislation that would reauthorize two science agencies responsible for supporting basic research, while improving math and science education. The measure authorizes $41 billion less in funding than the House of Representatives passed version of the legislation and eliminates duplicate programs within the Departments of Commerce, Energy and Education. The bill also includes a provision sponsored by Senator Hutchison modeled after the highly successful UTeach initiative in Texas. The provision would enable participating colleges and universities to allow students who major in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) to concurrently become certified as elementary and secondary school teachers. In 1997, the University of Texas at Austin started the UTeach program which has become a national benchmark for teaching excellence. The bill passed the Senate last week and is cosponsored by Commerce Committee Chairman John D. Rockefeller (D-W.Va.), Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) and Senator Jeff Bingaman (D-N.M). It was approved by the U.S. House of Representatives today and now heads to the President to be signed into law.
Press Releases 12/21/2010
VIDEO RELEASE: Hutchison: New FCC Regulations Threaten the Internet
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today said new regulations adopted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) threaten the future economic growth of the Internet. Sen. Hutchison also said she will introduce a resolution of disapproval in an effort to halt the new rules.
Press Releases 12/21/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on FCC Approval of Net Neutrality Rules
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released a statement today following the Federal Communications Commission’s (FCC) approval of rules governing net neutrality. The rules are aimed at preventing Internet providers from interfering with web traffic.
Press Releases 12/21/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Statement on Nomination of Ms. Ann Begeman to the Surface Transportation Board
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released this statement following President Obama’s nomination of Ms. Ann Begeman to be a Surface Transportation Board Member:
Press Releases 12/21/2010
Hutchison Says New FCC Regulations Threaten the Internet
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today said new Internet regulations adopted by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) threaten the future economic growth of the Internet. Sen. Hutchison will introduce a resolution of disapproval in an effort to halt the new rules.
Press Releases 12/17/2010
Rockefeller & Lautenberg Applaud Proposal to Stop Unsafe Cell Phone Use By Truck and Bus Drivers
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ), Chairman of the Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security Subcommittee, issued the following statements in response to the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) proposed rule to prohibit the use of hand-held mobile telephones by drivers of commercial motor vehicles, including trucks and buses.
Press Releases 12/17/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Hails Senate Passage of America COMPETES Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV released this statement following Senate passage of the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010:
Press Releases 12/17/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Announces Investigation into Telephone "Mystery Charges"
WASHINGTON, DC — Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV today announced that the Senate Commerce Committee is conducting an investigation into “cramming,” a deceptive practice that involves placing unauthorized “mystery charges” on telephone bills.
Press Releases 12/16/2010
Hutchison Files Amendment to Halt Government Regulation of the Internet
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), the Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today filed an amendment to prevent the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) from regulating the Internet. The amendment specifically would prohibit the FCC from using any appropriated funds “to adopt, implement, or otherwise litigate any network neutrality based rules, protocols, or standards.” The amendment is cosponsored by Senators Tom Coburn (Okla.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Jim DeMint (R-S.C.), John Ensign (R-Nev.), Johnny Isakson (R-Ga.), John Thune (R-S.D), and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.).
Press Releases 12/16/2010
Rockefeller Statement on Commerce Department Privacy Report
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Commerce released a report that addresses today’s online privacy challenges and offers recommendations to tackle these challenges.
Press Releases 12/15/2010
Hutchison Praises Passage of E-Commerce Legislation
Press Releases 12/15/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's E-Commerce Bill Clears Congress
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today lauded final congressional passage of his legislation to protect consumers from online scams. The legislation, the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act, cleared the U.S. House of Representatives today and now heads to President Obama’s desk.
Press Releases 12/14/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Urges House Passage of Bipartisan, Consumer Protection Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today urged the U.S. House of Representatives to vote in favor of a critical, bipartisan consumer protection bill that would save Americans hundreds of millions of dollars.
Press Releases 12/9/2010
Rockefeller Statement on HHS Guidance on Mini Med Policy Disclosures
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after the Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) issued its guidance for mini med policy disclosures:
Press Releases 12/8/2010
Hutchison Calls Successful SpaceX Launch Important Milestone
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today praised the successful launch, re-entry and recovery of SpaceX’s Dragon capsule and called it an important milestone in the development of cargo services, and eventually crew transportation services, needed to support and sustain the International Space Station.
Press Releases 12/8/2010
Executive Session Summary
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an executive session and favorably reported out the following nominations:
Press Releases 12/2/2010
Hearing Summary: International Aviation Screening Standards
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security Subcommittee hearing today on international aviation screening standards.
Press Releases 12/2/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on International Aviation Screening Standards
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Before we begin, I’d like to acknowledge that this will be the final Commerce Committee hearing chaired by Byron Dorgan. And while Senator Dorgan’s over quarter-century of service certainly entitles him to a career change, the Senate and this Committee will be worse off for it. For me, Senator Dorgan’s departure means the loss of a friend. Through the years, Senator Dorgan has been by my side, in the good times and the bad. He always fights the good fight, and the sheer volume of bills that bear his name is a testament to his tireless advocacy on behalf of North Dakota and this nation. So if everyone would indulge me, I’d like to take a couple minutes today to talk about Senator Dorgan.
Press Releases 12/2/2010
Hearing Summary - Oversight of the Consumer Product Safety Commission: Product Safety in the Holiday Season
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance Subcommittee hearing today titled Oversight of the Consumer Product Safety Commission: Product Safety in the Holiday Season.
Press Releases 12/2/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Oversight of the Consumer Product Safety Commission: Product Safety in the Holiday Season
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Thank you, Senator Pryor, for holding this hearing. I know that consumer product safety is a subject matter near and dear to your heart, and the American people owe you a debt of gratitude for all of the work you’ve done on this issue.
Press Releases 12/1/2010
Hearing Summary: Are Mini Med Policies Really Health Insurance?
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today titled Are Mini Med Policies Really Health Insurance?
Press Releases 12/1/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks: Are Mini Med Policies Really Health Insurance?
WASHINGTON, D.C.—More than a million Americans wake up and go to work every day thinking they have health insurance. But they don’t. They don’t have the kind of comprehensive health insurance that most of the people in this hearing room probably have - the kind that protects you from financial ruin if you get sick. Instead, they have something called “limited benefit” or “mini medical” insurance.
Press Releases 12/1/2010
Hutchison Tells NASA and Administration to Implement New Law
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- During an oversight hearing on NASA’s implementation of the agency’s authorization act enacted earlier this year, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today told NASA and the Obama Administration that it must follow through by implementing the law into policy.
Press Releases 12/1/2010
Rockefeller Statement on FTC's Online Privacy Report
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement on the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) report on consumers’ online privacy.
Press Releases 12/1/2010
Hearing Summary - Transition and Implementation: The NASA Authorization Act of 2010
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today titled Transition and Implementation: the NASA Authorization Act of 2010.
Press Releases 12/1/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Transition and Implementation: The NASA Authorization Act of 2010
WASHINGTON, D.C— The NASA Authorization Act of 2010 was signed into law nearly two months ago. The bill was the culmination of a spirited year-long debate between members of Congress, the Administration, the space community, and the American public on the future of America’s space agency. We were able to find a sensible center, and the resulting bill signed into law will help refocus and reinvigorate NASA, while making key investments in aeronautics, science and human space flight missions.
Press Releases 12/1/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's E-Commerce Bill Passes the Senate
WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today applauded Senate passage of the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act, his bill to protect consumers from deceptive online sales tactics.
Press Releases 12/1/2010
Hutchison Asks FCC Chief to Stand Down On Net Neutrality Scheme
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today asked Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Julius Genachowski to stand down on implementing net neutrality regulations, as it appears the agency plans to take action on the issue in December before the start of the next session of Congress.
Press Releases 11/30/2010
Nominations Hearing Summary
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a hearing today to consider the nominations of Dr. Scott Doney, to be Chief Scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association; and Mr. Mario Cordero and Mrs. Rebecca Dye to be Commissioners at the Federal Maritime Commission.
Press Releases 11/30/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Nominations Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Good afternoon. Today we will consider three nominations – the nominations of Dr. Scott Doney, to be Chief Scientist at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA); and Mr. Mario Cordero and Mrs. Rebecca Dye to be Commissioners at the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC). It is an honor to be selected to serve our country, and all of you are well-qualified for your positions.
Press Releases 11/22/2010
Rockefeller Statement on MLR Standards
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement in response to the Medical Loss Ratio (MLR) regulations standards released today:
Press Releases 11/19/2010
Rockefeller Hails FTC Rule to Protect Families from Mortgage Fraud
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement in response to the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) new rule to prevent predatory companies from taking advantage of Americans on the brink of foreclosure:
Press Releases 11/18/2010
Rockefeller & Dorgan Push for Lame Duck Passage of FAA Reauthorization
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Byron Dorgan, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation, Operations, Safety and Security, are pushing their colleagues to pass the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization in the lame duck Congress.
Press Releases 11/17/2010
Hearing Summary: Television Viewers, Retransmission Consent, and the Public Interest
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a Communications, Technology, and the Internet Subcommittee hearing today on television viewers, retransmission consent, and the public’s interest.
Press Releases 11/17/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Television Viewers, Retransmission Consent, and the Public Interest
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Television is a powerful force. But I believe the system we have for developing television content, packaging that content, and distributing it to consumers is broken. It may serve companies well. But it does not serve us well as consumers. And I believe it serves us even less well as citizens. Let me explain why.
Press Releases 11/17/2010
Hutchison Tells TSA Travelers’ Privacy Concerns are Legitimate
Press Releases 11/17/2010
Transportation Security Administration Oversight Hearing Summary
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on oversight of the Transportation Security Administration.
Press Releases 11/17/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Transportation Security Administration Oversight Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Turn on the TV. Pick up the newspaper. In the past 48 hours, there’s been a steady stream of stories about airport screening procedures - on pat-downs, and full body scanners. I appreciate people’s concerns. I understand that there is frustration. I realize some of these screening procedures appear invasive.
Press Releases 10/26/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Presses Social Networking Sites Facebook & MySpace on Privacy Rules
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today sent letters to Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg and MySpace President Michael Jones requesting more information about privacy breaches reported in the Wall Street Journal.
Press Releases 10/14/2010
Rockefeller to NAIC Commissioners: Reject Health Care Industry's 11th Hour Lobbying Effort
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, sent a letter to the members of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ (NAIC) Health and Managed Care (B) Committee urging them to stand strong against the health insurance industry’s last minute attempt to water down key consumer protections included in the health care reform bill.
Press Releases 10/8/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Attends Signing Ceremony for Communications Accessibility Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, attended the signing ceremony for the Twenty-First Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act of 2010. As Chairman, Senator Rockefeller played a key role in shepherding the bill to Senate passage.
Press Releases 10/7/2010
Hutchison: NASA Bill Provides Clear Direction and a New Path Forward for America’s Space Agency
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today said the NASA reauthorization bill, which the president is expected to sign into law, provides clear direction and a new path forward for America’s space agency. The bill was approved by the Senate in August and by the House in September.
Press Releases 10/1/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Probes McDonald's Health Care Plan
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, sent a letter today to Scott Beacham, the President and Chief Executive of BCS Financial Corporation, asking for more information about the insurance products his company sells to McDonald’s hourly wage employees.
Press Releases 09/30/2010
Rockefeller, Hutchison Applaud Passage of Coast Guard Authorization Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV), and Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX), today applauded final passage of the Coast Guard Authorization Act (H.R. 3619). The comprehensive legislation authorizes the U.S. Coast Guard’s funding levels, improves management and oversight of the Coast Guard’s Deepwater fleet modernization program, and provides new tools to enhance the Coast Guard’s critical homeland security, marine safety, fisheries and environmental protection missions.
Press Releases 09/30/2010
Rockefeller Statement on Senate Passage of the CALM Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after the Senate passed the CALM Act (S. 2847), a bill to require the FCC to enforce internationally accepted standards of television advertisement volumes to effectively fix a problem that annoys millions of television viewers when commercials are many times louder than regular programming.
Press Releases 09/30/2010
Hutchison Lauds Final Passage of Bill to Preserve America’s Future in Space
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House of Representatives today approved legislation negotiated by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Chairman of the Science and Space Subcommittee, to safeguard America’s human spaceflight capabilities while balancing commercial space investment with a robust mission for NASA. The bill now moves on to the President for his signature. The other sponsors of bill are Commerce Committee Chairman John D. Rockefeller (D-W.Va.), David Vitter (R-La.), and George LeMieux (R-Fla.). The bill was unanimously approved by the Senate in August.
Press Releases 09/29/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Praises House Passage of NASA Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV), Chairman of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, issued the following statement after the United States House of Representatives passed S. 3729, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act (NASA) of 2010. The bill now heads to the President to be signed into law.
Press Releases 09/29/2010
Rockefeller Praises House Passage of Bill to Improve Communications Accessibility for People with Disabilities
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after the House approved the Senate version of the Equal Access to 21st Century Communications Act (S. 3304). The legislation will update existing disabilities law to reflect accessibility to new and emerging technologies. The bill will now be sent to President Obama to be signed into law.
Press Releases 09/28/2010
Hearing Summary - Pipeline Safety: Assessing the San Bruno, California Explosion and Other Recent Accidents
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security Subcommittee hearing today titled Pipeline Safety: Assessing the San Bruno, California Explosion and Other Recent Accidents.
Press Releases 09/28/2010
Lautenberg, Rockefeller Introduce Pipeline Safety Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ), Chairman of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, and U.S. Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV), Chairman of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today introduced legislation to enhance pipeline safety efforts nationwide. The bill strengthens pipeline safety oversight by the federal government and addresses long-standing safety issues, including the use of automatic shutoff valves—which could have reduced the extent of damage caused in the San Bruno, California explosion.
Press Releases 09/28/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Pipeline Safety: Assessing the San Bruno, California Explosion and Other Recent Accidents
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Let me be clear: I believe safety should be the bedrock of any responsible industry. This goes for all companies, big or small, from the coal fields of West Virginia, to the manufacturers of automobiles. Whether you are a worker in a coal mine or live near a pipeline, we must do all that we can to make our industries as safe as possible. And safety must never take a backseat to profit.
Press Releases 09/28/2010
Hearing Summary - NHTSA Oversight: An Examination of the Highway Safety Provisions of SAFETEA-LU
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance Subcommittee hearing today titled NHTSA Oversight: An Examination of the Highway Safety Provisions of SAFETEA-LU.
Press Releases 09/28/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on NHTSA Oversight: An Examination of the Highway Safety Provisions of SAFETEA-LU
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Thank you, Senator Pryor, for holding this important hearing. A major focus of our Committee’s work this year has been on oversight of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and legislation to improve vehicle and highway safety.
Press Releases 09/23/2010
Hearing Summary: Keeping Us Safe - The Need for a Nationwide Public Safety Network
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today titled Keeping Us Safe: The Need for a Nationwide Public Safety Network.
Press Releases 09/23/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Calls for Nationwide Public Safety Network
WASHINGTON, D.C.— September is when we remember. We remember that nine years ago we witnessed the horror of September 11th. We remember that five years ago we watched the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. We remember because even with the passage of time, these are wounds that do not heal and losses we will never forget.
Press Releases 09/22/2010
Hearing Summary: Legislative Hearing on S.3742, the Data Security and Breach Notification Act of 2010
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance Subcommittee hearing today on S.3742, the Data Security and Breach Notification Act of 2010.
Press Releases 09/22/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Today's Legislative Hearing on S.3742, the Data Security Breach and Notification Act of 2010
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Thank you, Senator Pryor, for holding this hearing, and I want to commend you for your continued, excellent stewardship of the Consumer Protection Subcommittee.
Press Releases 09/20/2010
Rockefeller, Baucus Demand Transparency from Insurance Companies on Premium Increases
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-West Va.) and Senate Finance Committee Chairman Max Baucus (D-Mont.) sent a letter today to insurance companies with the five largest enrollments in the country demanding more transparency in calculations of premium increases. The Chairmen said today that they planned close oversight of the companies’ assertions about why premium increases might be necessary. The Senate leaders also made clear they would not tolerate false statements about the effects of the new health care law on premiums, especially since non-partisan, independent experts have concluded the Affordable Care Act will not result in large health insurance premium increases.
Press Releases 09/17/2010
Rockefeller, Dorgan Dissatisfied with MWAA Responses at Oversight Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV and Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security Subcommittee Chairman Byron L. Dorgan today announced that they intend to conduct further oversight of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA or Authority) in an effort to provide greater transparency and accountability regarding the Authority’s operation and maintenance of National Airport and Dulles Airport.
Press Releases 09/16/2010
Hearing Summary: Oversight of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, Reagan Washington National Airport and the Perimeter Rule
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an Aviation Operations, Safety, Security Subcommittee hearing today on oversight of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, Reagan Washington National Airport and the perimeter rule.
Press Releases 09/16/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Oversight of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, Reagan Washington National Airport and the Perimeter Rule
WASHINGTON, D.C—The Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (MWAA) operates two of the country’s most successful airports – Reagan National Airport and Dulles International Airport. These facilities have been essential to the development of Northern Virginia as one of this country’s high-technology centers. I am proud to have played a central role in the development of Dulles. When some were opposed to providing bonding authority to support its infrastructure needs, my support helped move this effort forward.
Press Releases 09/16/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Praises Export Promotion Provisions in the Senate Small Business Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement today after Senate passage of H.R. 5297, the Small Business Jobs and Credit Act of 2010.
Press Releases 09/15/2010
The Federal Role in National Rail Policy: Hearing Summary
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on the Federal role in national rail policy.
Press Releases 09/15/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on the Federal Role in National Rail Policy
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today’s hearing is about progress. It’s about what’s required to modernize our transportation system so our businesses and our workers can stay competitive in the 21st century. It’s about leveling the playing field. And it’s about how when we do that, America is stronger in the global marketplace and that means jobs and economic security.
Press Releases 09/15/2010
Rockefeller Releases Report on the Rail Industry and the Need for Level Playing Field to Create Competition and Boost Economy
WASHINGTON, D.C.—In anticipation of this afternoon’s hearing on federal rail policy, Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today released a Committee staff report, The Current Financial State of the Class I Freight Rail Industry, showing that the largest American freight railroad companies have been earning record profit margins at the expense of their shipper customers.
Press Releases 09/10/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on FAA's Proposed Pilot Fatigue Rulemaking
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced a proposed rulemaking which would allow pilots more rest and replace current work rules with flexible, scientifically based standards to combat pilot fatigue.
Press Releases 08/26/2010
Rockefeller, Klobuchar & Wyden Respond to GAO Report on Wireless Industry
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report, “Enhanced Data Collection Could Help FCC Better Monitor Competition in the Wireless Industry,” assessing competition in the wireless industry. The report was requested by U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.), Committee members Senator Dan Inouye (D-Hawaii) and Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).
Press Releases 08/10/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Mourns Loss of Former U.S. Senator and Commerce Committee Chairman Ted Stevens
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, Transportation, released this statement on the loss of former U.S. Senator Ted Stevens:
Press Releases 08/6/2010
Rockefeller Praises Senate Passage of Bill to Improve Communications Accessibility for People with Disabilities
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued this statement after the Senate approved the Equal Access to 21st Century Communications Act (S. 3304). The legislation will update existing disabilities law to reflect accessibility to new and emerging technologies.
Press Releases 08/6/2010
Rockefeller Hails Senate Passage of NASA Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after the Senate approved the NASA Authorization Act of 2010:
Press Releases 08/5/2010
Senate Approves Bill Championed by Senator Hutchison to Preserve America’s Human Spaceflight Capabilities
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate today approved bipartisan legislation championed by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, to safeguard America’s human spaceflight capabilities while balancing commercial space investment with a robust mission for NASA. The bill is also supported by Committee Chairman John D. Rockefeller (D-W.Va.) and Senators Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), David Vitter (R-La.) and George LeMieux (R-Fla.).
Press Releases 08/5/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Introduces Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today introduced the Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act, a bill to promote smart and efficient use of the nation’s radio airwaves as well as provide first responders and public safety officials with additional wireless resources to keep America safe.
Press Releases 08/5/2010
Pryor, Rockefeller Introduce Legislation to Protect Consumers' Personal Information and Prevent Identity Theft
WASHINGTON, D.D.—U.S. Senators Mark Pryor (D-AR) and John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV) today introduced legislation to require businesses and nonprofit organizations that store consumers’ personal information to put in place strong security features to safeguard sensitive data, alert consumers when this data has been breached, and provide affected individuals with the tools they need to protect their credit and finances. Currently, there is no single federal standard for guarding many types of consumer information.
Press Releases 08/4/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Continues Fight to Protect Consumers from Harmful and Deceptive Business Practices
WASHINGTON, D.C.— In his continued effort to protect consumers from harmful and deceptive business practices, Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today sent a letter to Nathaniel Lipman, President of Affinion Group, Inc. asking for more information about Affinion’s use of a “live check” enrollment process.
Press Releases 08/3/2010
Chairman Rockefeller to FCC Commissioners: Fix Broken Universal Service System
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, sent a letter to all five commissioners of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), urging them to fix inadequacies in the current universal service system.
Press Releases 08/2/2010
Pryor, Rockefeller Introduce Legislation to Increase Transparency, Competition in Insurance Industry
WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Mark Pryor (D-AR) and John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV) introduced the Insurance Competition and Transparency Act of 2010 today that would strike a provision in the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Act that restricts the FTC’s authority to investigate and disclose information about practices employed by insurance companies that may reduce competition in the marketplace. Currently, many insurance companies, including the health insurance industry, are largely exempt from this FTC oversight.
Press Releases 07/30/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Statement on Senate Passage of the Airline Safety and FAA Extension Act of 2010
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after the Senate passed the Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization extension reauthorizes the FAA through September 30, 2010 and implements critical aviation safety and pilot training improvement measures.
Press Releases 07/30/2010
Senate Passes FAA Funding Extension with Safety Provisions
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The United States Senate today passed a funding extension for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) that contained several key safety provisions to make air travel safer. These safety provisions were negotiated by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, Commerce Committee Chairman John D. Rockefeller (D-W.Va.), Senator Byron Dorgan (D-N.D.) and others. The previous extension was set to expire on August 1, 2010. The new extension will expire at the end of the fiscal year on September 30, 2010.
Press Releases 07/29/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Says FTC Rule to Protect Consumers from Deceptive Debt Settlement Practices is Enormously Important
WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced a new rule to protect consumers from deceptive debt settlement practices. The new rule will require debt settlement companies to disclose more information about the services they provide, and bar them from charging upfront fees. The debt settlement industry was the subject of a Commerce Committee investigation initiated by Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV.
Press Releases 07/28/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Statement on the Airline Safety and FAA Extension Act of 2010
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement about the Airline Safety and Federal Aviation Administration Extension Act of 2010. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization extension would reauthorize the FAA through September 30, 2010 and implement critical aviation safety and pilot training improvement measures. Senate action on the extension is expected in the coming days.
Press Releases 07/28/2010
Commerce Committee Chairman Rockefeller Statement on Introduction of Oil Spill Response and Energy Jobs Plan
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid introduced a legislative package on the targeted oil spill response and clean energy jobs plan.
Press Releases 07/27/2010
Consumer Online Privacy: Hearing Summary
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on consumer online privacy.
Press Releases 07/27/2010
Commerce Committee Approves SHORE Act
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement today after the committee approved S. 3597, the Securing Health for Ocean Resources and Environment Act (SHORE Act).
Press Releases 07/27/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Consumer Online Privacy
WASHINGTON, D.C—Today, our Committee will examine the issue of consumer privacy in an online world. It is an issue I am deeply interested in, and I know my colleagues – especially Senators Kerry and Pryor – who chair the Subcommittees on Communications and Consumer Protection are, too. I thank them for their work on this issue.
Press Releases 07/26/2010
Chairman Rockefeller and Ranking Member Hutchison Introduce Bipartisan Port Security Bill
WASHINGTON, DC — Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX), Ranking Member of the Commerce Committee, have introduced the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2010 (S. 3639), a bill to strengthen security at our nation’s ports by focusing resources on critical areas, including Especially Hazardous Cargo, small vessel security, and global supply chain security.
Press Releases 07/22/2010
Senate Commerce Committee Approves Oil Spill Preparedness and Response Bill, America COMPETES, and Spectrum Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an executive session and favorably reported out the following legislation:
Press Releases 07/22/2010
Hutchison: NASA Legislation Embraced by Appropriations Committee Presents Unified Senate Position on Space
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, said the approval of the Commerce, Science, Justice Appropriations legislation by the Senate Appropriations Committee today presents a unified Senate position on NASA and the future of America’s human spaceflight programs.
Press Releases 07/22/2010
Commerce Committee Advances America COMPETES Reauthorization Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation approved the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (S. 3605), a continuing effort with the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources.
Press Releases 07/22/2010
Committee Approves Bill with Hutchison Provision to Improve Science, Technology, Engineering and Math Education
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee today approved reauthorization of the America COMPETES Act with a new provision sponsored by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Committee, to improve math and science education across the nation. The provision, modeled after the highly successful UTeach initiative in Texas, would enable participating colleges and universities to prepare students who major in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM) to become certified as elementary and secondary school teachers.
Press Releases 07/22/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Today's Executive Session
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Good afternoon. Thank you all for being here. We have a full schedule today with some very significant bills. I know members wish to speak on various bills, and every member wishing to do so will have an opportunity.
Press Releases 07/21/2010
Hearing Summary - SAFE Port Act Reauthorization: Securing Our Nation's Critical Infrastructure
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today titled SAFE Port Act: Securing Our Nation's Critical Infrastructure.
Press Releases 07/21/2010
Hutchison: Port Security is a Critical Element of National Security
WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a hearing today on reauthorization of the SAFE Port Act in the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), the Committee’s Ranking Member, said that port security plays a crucial role in America’s national security efforts. In 2006, Senator Hutchison was a cosponsor of the original SAFE Port Act, which strengthened port security across the nation by establishing innovative programs to enhance the ability to protect our borders and preserve the flow of commerce.
Press Releases 07/21/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on SAFE Port Act Reauthorization: Securing Our Nation's Critical Infrastructure
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Every day, terrorists are hard at work hatching new plans to do Americans harm. As the former Chairman, and a current member of the Intelligence Committee, I have a unique appreciation for the threats we face, and I can tell you: the threats are real, and they are ever-evolving.
Press Releases 07/21/2010
Hearing Summary - Turning Ideas into Action: Ensuring Effective Clean Up and Restoration in the Gulf
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard Subcommittee hearing today titled Turning Ideas into Action: Ensuring Effective Clean Up and Restoration in the Gulf.
Press Releases 07/21/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Statement - Will Introduce the Public Safety Spectrum and Wireless Innovation Act in the Coming Days
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement regarding his plans to release spectrum policy legislation in the coming days:
Press Releases 07/21/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Turning Ideas into Action: Ensuring Effective Clean Up and Restoration in the Gulf
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Good morning. I want to thank our witnesses for joining us today. You are at the forefront of developing systems to prevent and respond to oil spills, and we thank you for offering your ideas today. The Gulf oil spill has been a terrible disaster, painfully upending the lives and livelihoods of millions of Americans. I want all of us to do all that we can to make sure something like this never happens again.
Press Releases 07/20/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Fights for Proper Implementation of Health Care Law as Health Insurers Try to Weaken Consumer Provisions
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, sent a letter today to Commissioner Jane Cline, President of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC), expressing several concerns about implementation of the medical loss ratio (MLR) provision in the health care reform law. The letter follows more than three months of discussions between state insurance officials, consumer representatives, and insurance industry lobbyists about how the new law will take effect.
Press Releases 07/19/2010
Rockefeller Statement on Findings of TARP Watchdog Auto Dealership Report
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement regarding the findings of a report by the special inspector general for the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) on the Obama Administration’s handling of auto dealer closings in the wake of GM and Chrysler’s bankruptcy last year:
Press Releases 07/16/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Introduces Commerce Committee's Contribution to Important America COMPETES Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today announced the introduction of the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010 (S. 3605), a joint effort with the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. The bill invests in research and development (R&D), and in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education – drivers of America’s economy and keys to our competitiveness in the global marketplace.
Press Releases 07/16/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Introduces Coastal Oil Spill Prevention, Preparedness, and Response Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, & Transportation has introduced legislation, the Securing Health for Ocean Resources and Environment (SHORE) Act, to bolster the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)’s and the U.S. Coast Guard’s ability to prevent and respond to oil spills, and to help the agencies and coastal states protect fragile coastal ecosystems. The legislation comes on the heels of the worst oil spill in U.S. history. The bill will improve federal and state prevention, response, and restoration efforts.
Press Releases 07/15/2010
Hearing Summary: Protecting Youths in an Online World
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a Consumer Protection, Product Safety, and Insurance Subcommittee hearing today on protecting youths in an online world.
Press Releases 07/15/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Hails Passage of Landmark Wall Street Reform
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today applauded the passage of landmark Wall Street reform legislation. This bill includes consumer protection provisions championed by Chairman Rockefeller that will help protect small businesses and American consumers. As Chairman of the Commerce Committee, Senator Rockefeller has made consumer protection a cornerstone of his agenda, and he fought to maintain the Federal Trade Commission’s (FTC) role in safeguarding consumers from unscrupulous financial services. The legislation now heads to the President’s desk, where it is expected to be signed into law.
Press Releases 07/15/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Protecting Youths in an Online World
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Thank you, Senator Pryor. As Chairman of the Consumer Protection Subcommittee, you’ve been such a strong advocate for protecting kids and teens in our digital world. I know this is a concern weighing heavily on the minds of so many parents across America, and we are both deeply committed to doing all we can to safeguard our nation’s youth. I appreciate your leadership on this issue.
Press Releases 07/15/2010
Committee Approves Hutchison Cosponsored Bill to Preserve America’s Human Spaceflight Capabilities
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee today unanimously approved legislation cosponsored by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Committee, to safeguard America’s human spaceflight capabilities while balancing commercial space investment with a robust mission for NASA. The bill was sponsored by Committee Chairman John D. Rockefeller (D-W.Va.) and cosponsored by Senators Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), David Vitter (R-La.) and George LeMieux (R-Fla.).
Press Releases 07/15/2010
Commerce Committee Passes Important Communications Accessibility Legislation for People with Disabilities
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, made the following statement after committee members favorably reported out the Equal Access to 21st Century Communications Act (S. 3304) during today’s executive session.
Press Releases 07/15/2010
Commerce Committee Approves NASA Bill - Chairman Rockefeller Says Bipartisan Bill is Innovative and Forward-Looking
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement today after the committee approved the NASA Authorization Act of 2010.
Press Releases 07/15/2010
Senate Commerce Committee Approves Crucial NASA Authorization, Equal Access to 21st Century Communications Act, and Maritime Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an executive session and favorably reported out the following legislation and nominations:
Press Releases 07/15/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Today's Executive Session
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Good morning, I want to briefly summarize the bills and accepted amendments. We’ll consider three bills today, and a nomination for promotion in the U.S. Coast Guard. We will begin with The National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act of 2010.
Press Releases 07/14/2010
Rockefeller, Voinovich Introduce Carbon Capture and Storage Deployment Act of 2010
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-W.Va.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, and Senator George V. Voinovich (R-Ohio) unveiled the Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) Deployment Act of 2010. This bipartisan legislation promotes research and creates incentives to develop and deploy full scale CCS technologies for a strong energy future. In March of this year, Senators Rockefeller and Voinovich released a discussion draft of the legislation.
Press Releases 07/13/2010
Rockefeller Statement on the Court of Appeals Decision Overturning Indecency Rules
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today issued the following statement regarding the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit’s decision overturning the Federal Communications Commission's (FCC) indecency policy.
Press Releases 07/1/2010
Hutchison Pleased with Short-Term Shuttle Extension to 2011
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today said she was pleased to see NASA delay the launch of the space shuttle Discovery to November 1, 2010, and push back the scheduled launch of space shuttle Endeavour to February 26, 2011. Senator Hutchison has consistently stated that the President's NASA proposal should include a short-term stretch out of the shuttle program’s remaining flights in order to protect the nation’s $100 billion investment in the International Space Station.
Press Releases 06/30/2010
Hutchison Calls on President to Temporarily Waive Jones Act to Assist with Gulf Oil Spill
WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing today to consider various legal remedies available for the oil spill in the Gulf, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Committee, called on President Obama to waive the Jones Act to temporarily allow foreign marine vessels to assist with oil cleanup efforts in the Gulf of Mexico. Hutchison noted that it has been more than two months since the oil spill began, and an estimated 140 million gallons of oil have leaked into the Gulf.
Press Releases 06/30/2010
Hearing Summary - Deepwater Horizon Tragedy: Holding Responsible Parties Accountable
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today titled Deepwater Horizon Tragedy: Holding Responsible Parties Accountable.
Press Releases 06/30/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on the Deepwater Horizon Tragedy: Holding Responsible Parties Accountable
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Seventy-one difficult, painful days have passed since the enormous disaster in the Gulf began, and with every day that goes by, the economic and environmental damage grows worse and worse.
Press Releases 06/28/2010
Jay and Sharon Rockefeller Mourn the Loss of Senator Robert C. Byrd
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Jay Rockefeller and his wife, Sharon, today joined West Virginians and people across the country in remembering the life and legacy of Senator Robert C. Byrd.
Press Releases 06/25/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Statement on Senate Confirmation of TSA Nominee
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after the Senate confirmed John S. Pistole to be Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration and an Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security:
Press Releases 06/24/2010
Hearing Summary: Ensuring the Safety of Our Nation's Pipelines
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security Subcommittee hearing today titled Ensuring the Safety of Our Nation's Pipelines.
Press Releases 06/24/2010
Hutchison: We Must Focus on Safety of Nation’s Oil and Gas Pipelines
Press Releases 06/24/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Ensuring the Safety of Our Nation's Pipelines
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Over 2.5 million miles of pipeline transport natural gas, oil, and other materials across our country, supplying energy that helps power our factories, heat our homes, and fuel our cars, trucks, and planes.
Press Releases 06/24/2010
Hearing Summary - Universal Service: Transforming the High-Cost Fund for the Broadband Era
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today titled Universal Service: Transforming the High-Cost Fund for the Broadband Era.
Press Releases 06/22/2010
Hearing Summary - Innovation in America: Opportunities and Obstacles
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a Competitiveness, Innovation, and Export Promotion Subcommittee hearing today titled Innovation in America: Opportunities and Obstacles.
Press Releases 06/22/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on Senate Confirmation of Nominees to Key Science, Transportation and Safety Posts
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement today after the full Senate confirmed sixty-four Obama administration nominees, the largest package to move through the Senate chamber this year.
Press Releases 06/22/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Innovation in America: Opportunities and Obstacles
WASHINGTON, D.C.—American democracy, American financial markets, and American education have all made our nation and our economy the most innovative in the world.
Press Releases 06/22/2010
Hutchison Strongly Supports John Glenn Statement on NASA
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today said she strongly supports former Ohio Senator and astronaut John Glenn’s statement highlighting the risks of relying only on the Russian Soyuz vehicles for American access to the International Space Station. Senator Hutchison has consistently stated that any compromise between the Constellation program and the President's budget proposal should include a short-term extension of the shuttle program in order to protect the nation’s $100 billion investment in the space station. She noted that additional shuttle flights would sustain and utilize the space station to conduct ground-breaking research and help maintain the primary justification for continuing America’s human space flight capability.
Press Releases 06/18/2010
Bicameral Bipartisan Telecommunications Update Statement
WASHINGTON, DC — The bipartisan leaders of the committees of jurisdiction over communications matters today announced that they will hold a series of staff-led stakeholder sessions regarding communications policy.
Press Releases 06/18/2010
Hutchison and LeMieux Introduce Legislation to Provide Assistance to Oil Spill Clean Up Effort
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, Committee member Senator George LeMieux (R-Fla.), and Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas), today introduced legislation that would temporarily allow foreign marine vessels to assist with the oil cleanup effort in the Gulf of Mexico. The bill, titled the WAIVER (Water Assistance from International Vessels for Emergency Response) Act, would temporarily waive the Jones Act, which requires that all goods and people transported by water between United States ports be carried in American flagged, owned, and crewed ships. The waiver would allow foreign flagged vessels with crucial equipment to travel between U.S. ports to provide needed assistance. The Jones Act was put into place in 1920 to ensure that the United States was able to maintain a fleet of merchant ships.
Press Releases 06/17/2010
Rockefeller Statement on FAA Bill and FedEx Provision
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation issued the following statement:
Press Releases 06/17/2010
Commerce Committee Unanimously Reports Out TSA Administrator Nominee
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement after the Commerce Committee unanimously reported out the nomination of Mr. John S. Pistole, to be Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration and an Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security:
Press Releases 06/17/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Statement on FCC's Decision to Seek Public Comment on Broadband Regulation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement today in response to the FCC’s notice of inquiry (NOI) to seek public comment on reclassifying broadband Internet service under existing law:
Press Releases 06/17/2010
Rockefeller Pushes for Two Year EPA Suspension Legislation
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation and longtime member of the Senate Finance Committee, issued the following statement on his two year EPA suspension legislation, the Commerce Committee’s work on the crisis in the Gulf, and his continued efforts toward an energy policy that will work for West Virginia:
Press Releases 06/17/2010
Hearing Summary: The Financial State of the Airline Industry and the Implications of Consolidation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on the financial state of the airline industry and the implications of consolidation.
Press Releases 06/17/2010
Hutchison: FCC Move Will Stifle Internet’s Growth through Burdensome Regulations
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today said she was disappointed with the decision by Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to move forward with burdensome regulations after the FCC voted to reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service, the first step in implementing net neutrality rules for the Internet.
Press Releases 06/17/2010
Hutchison Raises Concerns About Proposed Airline Merger
WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing today on the proposed merger between United Airlines and Continental Airlines, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Committee, said she was disappointed with the proposed merger decision.
Press Releases 06/17/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on the Financial State of the Airline Industry and the Implications of Consolidation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Air transportation is absolutely essential to our economy. I have been working on aviation my entire career, and I have seen just how important it is for our communities to be able to move people and products anywhere in the world in a short time.
Press Releases 06/16/2010
Commerce Committee Work on Oil Spill Continues
WASHINGTON, DC — Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, who serves as Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today issued the following statement on the continued work of the Commerce Committee on the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
Press Releases 06/10/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Applauds Senate Passage of Bill to Protect Passengers on Cruise Ships
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today applauded Senate passage of the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act of 2010 (S. S.588), a bill that will improve the safety and security of cruise ships passengers.
Press Releases 06/10/2010
Hutchison: NASA Leadership Skirting the Law to Shut Down Space Programs
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today said NASA leadership was skirting the law to shut down the Constellation program after NASA leadership publicly announced a decision to reprioritize work on the program. NASA’s stated justification for these actions is the Anti-Deficiency Act (ADA), which prohibits spending funds beyond levels that are appropriated in a given year, or obligating the government to pay money before funds have been appropriated. There are a number of unanswered questions on whether the ADA would apply in this situation, and if it did, the recently passed Defense Supplemental legislation clarifies that regardless of any provision of law, work must continue on the Constellation program.
Press Releases 06/10/2010
Rockefeller, Snowe Support Efforts to Bolster America's Cybersecurity
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senator Olympia J. Snowe, a senior member of the Commerce Committee, released the following statement on the importance of passing comprehensive cybersecurity legislation and applauded Senator Joe Lieberman (I-CT) and Senator Susan Collins (R-ME) for introducing legislation that aims to achieve this goal.
Press Releases 06/10/2010
Nomination Hearing Summary
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on the nomination of Mr. John S. Pistole, to be Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration and an Assistant Secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Press Releases 06/10/2010
Hutchison Questions TSA Nominee on Need for Flexible Workforce to React Quickly to Emerging Threats
WASHINGTON, D.C. - During a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing today on John Pistole, the nominee to lead the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas) said she had serious concerns with collective bargaining for TSA security screeners. Senator Hutchison said it was critical for the agency to have a flexible workforce that can react quickly to emerging threats.
Press Releases 06/10/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Today's Nomination Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.—We are here today to consider the nomination of Mr. John S. Pistole, to be the Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Press Releases 06/9/2010
Executive Session Summary
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an executive session and favorably reported out the following legislation and nominations: