WASHINGTON, D.C. – Chairman John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV issued the following statement today announcing Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) as chairman of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security, and Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) as chairman of the new U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Tourism, Competitiveness, and Innovation.

“Senator Blumenthal is a champion for smart and safe transportation investments. In the wake of several tragic transportation accidents last year, the need for a dedicated voice for advancing the safety of our transportation systems is apparent. Senator Blumenthal is that voice – he’s a stalwart defender of stronger safety requirements and better protections for consumers on all fronts. He also shares with me a commitment to investing in our infrastructure, and I look forward to working with him to provide a 21^st century transportation system that is so important to creating jobs and driving our economy.   

“I am supremely confident that Senator Schatz, as chairman of the Tourism Subcommittee, will put his singular insight on the importance of a robust tourism industry and an appreciation for its profound economic benefits to good use for his state and the country. As Hawaii's Senator and as a former lieutenant governor, he has worked to help Hawaii’s economy grow and develop through leveraging tourism opportunities. Senator Schatz will continue to bolster and sharpen our nation’s competitive edge in the global economy by fighting for strong export and pro-innovation policies. I look forward to working with Senator Schatz on these issues that are vital to the future of our economy.”

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