Press Releases

Press Releases 03/18/2010
Hutchison: Commercial Space Flight Can’t Yet Close U.S. Space Gap
WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing today on commercial space capabilities, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Committee, noted the importance of maintaining American access to space without having to rely on other nations.
Press Releases 03/18/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Assessing Commercial Space Capabilities
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Last month, the Obama Administration proposed a new path forward for NASA that refocuses the agency’s overall direction.
Press Releases 03/18/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Today's Nominations
WASHINGTON, D.C.—I am pleased to welcome our nominees to the committee today. Congratulations and thank you for your continued service to our nation.
Press Releases 03/17/2010
Hearing Summary - Financial Services and Products: The Role of the FTC in Protecting Consumers, Part II
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 Financial Services and Products: The Role of the Federal Trade Commission in Protecting Consumers, Part II.
Press Releases 03/17/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Financial Services and Products: The Role of the FTC in Protecting Consumers
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today’s hearing reflects the Commerce Committee’s ongoing commitment to consumer financial protection and the important role of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). It is an important follow-up to the full committee hearing we held on February 4th when we heard from FTC Chairman Jon Leibowitz.
Press Releases 03/17/2010
Rockefeller and Snowe Unveil Comprehensive Cybersecurity Legislation
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 (R-ME) , a senior member of the Committee, today released the latest draft of comprehensive, bipartisan cybersecurity legislation to address our nation’s vulnerability to cyber crime, global cyber espionage, and cyber attacks.
Press Releases 03/15/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on National Broadband 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 today after the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) released an executive summary of the National Broadband Plan set to be announced tomorrow.
Press Releases 03/11/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Urges for Stronger Safety Standards in FAA Reauthorization
WASHINGTON, D.C.— WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, delivered remarks on the floor of the Senate pushing for aviation safety to remain a key priority as we consider the FAA Transportation Modernization and Safety Act.
Press Releases 03/11/2010
Hearing Summary: Consumers, Competition, and Consolidation in the Video and Broadband Market
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on Consumers, Competition, and Consolidation in the Video and Broadband Market.
Press Releases 03/11/2010
Hutchison: Congress and Regulators Must Tread Carefully on Mergers
WASHINGTON, D.C. – During a Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee hearing today on consumers, competition and consolidation in the broadband and video market, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Committee, stressed the need to ensure media mergers do not endanger consumers and competitors, and that government actions do not impact innovation and investment.
Press Releases 03/11/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Consumers, Competition, and Consolidation in the Video and Broadband Market
WASHINGTON, D.C.—We are here today to discuss consumers, competition, and consolidation in the video and broadband markets.
Press Releases 03/10/2010
Rockefeller, Dorgan Take Bipartisan Aviation Bill to the Senate Floor
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and, Transportation, and Senator Byron L. Dorgan, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security, brought legislation to the floor of the Senate to reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration.
Press Releases 03/10/2010
Hearing Summary: Advancing American Innovation and Competitiveness
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on Advancing American Innovation and Competitiveness.
Press Releases 03/10/2010
Hutchison: America’s Long Term Competitiveness is Critical
Press Releases 03/10/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Advancing American Innovation and Competitiveness
WASHINGTON, D.C.—We are here today to talk about science: science for research, research for innovation, the innovation behind new technologies, and technology development that leads to high-tech jobs.
Press Releases 03/8/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on the Nomination of Retired Major Gen. Harding to Lead TSA
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 administration announced the nomination of retired Major Gen. Robert Harding to be Administrator of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Press Releases 03/5/2010
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT – Houston Chronicle Hutchison: After 50 years of NASA, we must not leave space
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, recently authored an opinion piece in the Houston Chronicle on the future of NASA.
Press Releases 03/4/2010
Hearing Summary: Hearing to Review the Department of Transportation Fiscal Year 2011 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 2011 Budget.
Press Releases 03/4/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Hearing to Review the Department of Transportation Fiscal Year 2011 Budget
WASHINGTON, D.C.—We are meeting today to review the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) $79 billion request for FY 2011.
Press Releases 03/4/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Hails President's Signing of Travel Promotion Act as Tremendous Accomplishment Toward Boosting American Tourism
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 today as President Obama signed the Travel Promotion Act into law – an Act that was originally reported by the Senate Commerce Committee.
Press Releases 03/3/2010
Hutchison Introduces Bill to Close Gap in U.S. Spaceflight
Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today introduced legislation to close the gap in U.S. human space flight that will occur if the space shuttle is retired before the next generation of space vehicle is developed. Senator Hutchison’s bill would allow the National Aeronautical and Space Administration (NASA) to extend the shuttle’s service as work continues on the next generation of American space vehicle.
Press Releases 03/3/2010
Hearing Summary: NOAA's FY 2011 Budget Request and Fisheries Enforcement Programs and Operations
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an Oceans, Atmosphere, Fisheries, and Coast Guard Subcommittee hearing today on The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s FY 2011 Budget Request and Fisheries Enforcement Programs and Operations.
Press Releases 03/3/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on NOAA's FY 2011 Budget Request and Fisheries Enforcement Programs and Operations
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Putting science to work for America is at the heart of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s mission—from forecasting weather and monitoring the climate to supporting safe navigation for trade and maintaining our fisheries.
Press Releases 03/2/2010
Hearing Summary: Toyota's Recalls and the Government's Response
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on Toyota’s Recalls and the Government Response.
Press Releases 03/2/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Calls for Aggressive Legislative Action to Restore Safety of American Consumers
WASHINGTON, D.C.—I want to thank all of today’s witnesses for their cooperation in making sure the Committee got all the information it was looking for.
Press Releases 03/2/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Toyota's Recall and the Government's Response (2:30 PM, Panel III)
WASHINGTON, D.C.—I want to welcome our next panel and thank my colleagues for dedicating so much of their day to this important issue.
Press Releases 03/2/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Toyota's Recall and the Government's Response (10:00 AM, Panels I & II)
WASHINGTON, D.C.—At its core, today’s hearing is about the millions of Americans who drive to work, the grocery store, or carpool their kids to school and activities everyday.
Press Releases 02/26/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on Senate Passage of the Travel Promotion Act
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 regarding the Senate’s passage of the Travel Promotion Act.
Press Releases 02/25/2010
Hearing Summary - Aviation Safety: One Year After the Crash of Flight 3407
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held an Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security Subcommittee hearing today on Aviation Safety: One Year After the Crash of Flight 3407.
Press Releases 02/25/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Aviation Safety: One Year After the Crash of Flight 3407
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Just over a year ago, the tragic crash of Flight 3407 in Buffalo, New York took the lives of 50 people.
Press Releases 02/24/2010
Hearing Summary: Challenges and Opportunities in the NASA FY 2011 Budget Proposal
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a Science and Space Subcommittee hearing today on Challenges and Opportunities in the NASA FY 2011 Budget Proposal.
Press Releases 02/24/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Challenges and Opportunities in the NASA FY 2011 Budget Proposal
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Thank you again to all of today’s witnesses for their participation. I know this is Administrator Bolden’s first time testifying before the committee since his confirmation and I look forward to his testimony.
Press Releases 02/24/2010
Commerce Chairmen Send Letter Requesting Expanded Audit of NHTSA in Toyota Recall Investigation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and...
Press Releases 02/23/2010
Hearing Summary - Cybersecurity: Next Steps to Protect Our Critical Infrastructure
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on Cybersecurity: Next Steps to Protect Our Critical Infrastructure.
Press Releases 02/23/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Remarks on Cybersecurity: Next Steps to Protect Our Critical Infrastructure
WASHINGTON, D.C.— This nation and its citizens depend enormously on communications technology in countless ways everyday.
Press Releases 02/23/2010
Hearing Summary: Improving Energy Efficiency Through Technology and Communications Innovation
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a Communications, Technology, and the Internet Subcommittee hearing today on Improving Energy Efficiency Through Technology and Communications Innovation.
Press Releases 02/17/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Praises Release of Critical Transportation Infrastructure Funding
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issue...
Press Releases 02/4/2010
Hearing Summary - Financial Services and Products: The Role of the Federal Trade Commission in Protecting Consumers
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on Financial Services and Products: The Role of the Federal Trade Commission in Protecting Consumers.
Press Releases 02/4/2010
Rockefeller Urges FTC to Secure Stronger Regulations to Protect American Homeowners
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issue...
Press Releases 02/4/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Financial Services and Products: The Role of the Federal Trade Commission in Protecting Consumers
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, American consumers are hurting. Many have lost their jobs, foreclosures are up, and in tough economic times family budgets are tight.
Press Releases 02/4/2010
Senate Commerce Committee Announces Launch of New Updated Website
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, is pleased to announce the launch of the Committee’s new updated website.
Press Releases 02/3/2010
Rockefeller Commends Interagency Effort to Develop and Deploy Carbon Capture and Storage for Coal
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issue...
Press Releases 02/2/2010
Rockefeller Statement on Support of $8 Billion Investment in Developing America's High-Speed Rail Network
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, issue...
Press Releases 01/27/2010
Hutchison Statement on NASA Budget Outlook
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today released the following statement on President Obama’s proposed budget for the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA).
Press Releases 01/27/2010
Rockefeller Statement on U.S. Government Agency Exemplary Relief Efforts in Haiti
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 devastating earthquake in Haiti and the ongoing relief efforts of U.S. government agencies under the Committee’s jurisdiction.
Press Releases 01/26/2010
Nominations Hearing Summary
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on nominations.
Press Releases 01/26/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Nominations Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.—I want to thank and congratulate our nominees. I appreciate your commitment to public service and look forward to seeing you all confirmed shortly, so you can get to work.
Press Releases 01/26/2010
Chairman Rockefeller Supportive of DOT Regulatory Guidance to Curb Distracted Driving in Commercial Vehicles
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 regarding the latest in a series of actions the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has taken to curb texting by drivers of commercial vehicles, such as large trucks and buses.
Press Releases 01/25/2010
Rockefeller Statement on Incidents at DuPont Chemical Plant in Belle, West Virginia
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 on recent incidents at a DuPont chemical plant in Belle, WV.
Press Releases 01/22/2010
Internet Retailers - Including Fandango, Priceline.com and 1-800Flowers.com - Change Misleading Marketing Tactics in Response to Rockefeller's Landmark Investigation
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 notification from several major e-retailers that they will no longer allow third party companies to make misleading offers to their customers during the checkout process on their websites.
Press Releases 01/21/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Investigation Causes E-Commerce Companies to Discontinue Misleading Marketing Tactic
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 regarding letters he recently received from the CEO’s of Affinion Group, Webloyalty Inc., and Vertrue Inc. Each company informed Chairman Rockefeller that following his investigation in to their business practices, it will now require consumers to enter their full 16 digit credit card number in order to enroll in a membership program online.
Press Releases 01/20/2010
Hutchison: America Must Adapt Quickly to Evolving Terror Threats
WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement today during a hearing on the attempted terrorist incident on Flight 253 that occurred on Christmas day.
Press Releases 01/20/2010
Hearing Summary - The State of Aviation Security: Is Our Current System Capable of Meeting the Threat?
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on The State of Aviation Security: Is Our Current System Capable of Meeting the Threat?
Press Releases 01/20/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on The State of Aviation Security: Is Our Current System Capable of Meeting the Threat?
WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Christmas terror attack told us we need to further harden our defenses and evaluate if we are doing everything we can to meet an evolving Al Qaeda terrorist threat.
Press Releases 01/20/2010
Hutchison Statement on Erroll Southers Withdrawal as TSA Nominee
WASHINGTON, D.C. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, released the following statement today on the withdrawal of Erroll Southers as the nominee to head the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Press Releases 01/20/2010
Rockefeller Statement on Erroll Southers Withdrawal as TSA Nominee
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 on the withdrawal of Erroll Southers as the nominee to head the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Press Releases 01/19/2010
Senate Commerce Committee Hearing: Is Our Current System Capable of Meeting the Threat?
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announces a full committee hearing on aviation security and the recent attempted terrorist incident on Flight #253 to Detroit.
Press Releases 01/13/2010
Chinese Cyber-Attacks on Google Further Highlights Need to Improve American Cybersecurity Infrastructure
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 Google’s announcement expressing concerns about cyber-attacks originating from China to its corporate infrastructure.
Press Releases 01/8/2010
Chairman Rockefeller's Fight Against Internet "Mystery Charges" Continues -- E-Commerce Companies Changing the Way They Do Business
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 regarding Affinion Group’s announcement that the company will cease its datapass marketing membership programs.
Press Releases 01/6/2010
IN CASE YOU MISSED IT - The Hill - Hutchison: FCC Broadband plan must be daring, comprehensive
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, today authored an opinion piece in The Hill newspaper on the upcoming broadband report by the Federal Communications Commission expected next month.
Press Releases 12/30/2009
Rockefeller Statement on Aviation Security and the Recent Terrorist Attempt on Flight 253 to Detroit
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 on aviation security and the recent terrorist attempt on flight #253 to Detroit. The Senate Commerce Committee has jurisdiction over aviation security and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).
Press Releases 12/22/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on President Obama's Nomination of 24th Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard
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 announcement of Vice Admiral Robert J. Papp Jr.’s nomination to become the next Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard. Vice Admiral Papp, if approved by the U.S. Senate, would become the 24th Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, replacing Admiral Thad Allen in May 2010.
Press Releases 12/22/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on New DOT Rule to Strengthen Airline Passenger Protections
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 an announcement made by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regarding a new rule that establishes consumer protections during airline tarmac delays. The new rule prohibits U.S. airlines operating domestic flights from permitting an aircraft to remain on the tarmac for more than three hours without deplaning passengers.
Press Releases 12/22/2009
Rockefeller and Snowe Issue Joint Statement on Selection of New Cybersecurity Coordinator
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 Committee, issued the following statement today regarding President Obama’s selection of Howard Schmidt to be the new cybersecurity coordinator:
Press Releases 12/17/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Sounding the Alarm on a Silent Killer
WASHINGTON, D.C.—It may be impossible to protect our loved ones from every risk in the world. But there are a lot of easy yet powerful precautions we can take, even in our own homes, to safeguard our families from danger.
Press Releases 12/17/2009
Committee Approves Hutchison Cosponsored Railroad Reform Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee today approved bipartisan legislation cosponsored by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), Ranking Member on the Committee, and Chairman John D. Rockefeller (D-W.Va.) to update federal rail policy to better balance the needs of rail carriers and their shippers and reauthorize the Surface Transportation Board (STB) for 5 years. The STB has not been reauthorized since it was established in 1996.
Press Releases 12/17/2009
Committee Approves Bus Safety Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee today unanimously approved legislation sponsored by Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX), Ranking Member on the Committee, and Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) to overhaul motorcoach safety regulations and dramatically reduce deaths and serious injuries caused by accidents.
Press Releases 12/17/2009
Executive Session: Committee Legislation 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:
Press Releases 12/17/2009
Chairman's Rockefeller's Remarks on the Surface Transportation Board Reauthorization Act of 2009
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, this Committee will markup the bipartisan Surface Transportation Board Reauthorization Act of 2009. My colleagues know I firmly believe this reauthorization is enormously significant.
Press Releases 12/17/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Executive Session
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Good morning, I know members wish to speak on various bills, and I will be happy to give everyone an opportunity to speak after the bills have been adopted.
Press Releases 12/17/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Introduces Landmark Railroad Reform Legislation
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 held an Executive Session and favorably reported out S. 2889, the Surface Transportation Board (STB) Reauthorization Act of 2009. The STB Reauthorization Act of 2009 (STB Act), cosponsored by Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison, Senator Frank Lautenberg, Senator John Thune, and Senator Byron Dorgan, will comprehensively update and improve the railroad industry and address longstanding competitive imbalances for shippers by increasing rail competition, strengthening federal oversight, and improving shipper’s access to regulatory relief.
Press Releases 12/16/2009
Rockefeller, Hutchison, Dorgan, DeMint Send Bipartisan Letter Expressing Concern Over Airman Certificate Vetting Process
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, joined with Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison...
Press Releases 12/15/2009
Hearing Summary: 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 12/15/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Nominations Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.--I want to welcome and congratulate our nominees. I appreciate your commitment to public service and look forward to seeing you all confirmed shortly so you can get to work.
Press Releases 12/11/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Works to Keep America Competitive by Broadening Access to the Internet and Computers
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 introducing The Broadband Opportunity and Affordability Act (BOAA), a bipartisan piece of legislation, which would amend the Communications Act to extend a universal service program at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to provide support for broadband in low-income households.
Press Releases 12/10/2009
Rockefeller, Klobuchar Statement on Release of GAO Report on FCC's Need to Improve Oversight of Wireless Phone Service
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Senator Amy Klobuchar, Chairwoman of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Competitiveness, Innovation, and Export Promotion...
Press Releases 12/10/2009
Hearing Summary - Aviation Safety: Oversight of FAA Safety Initiatives
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a subcommittee hearing today on Aviation Safety: Oversight of FAA Safety Initiatives.
Press Releases 12/10/2009
Chairman Rockefeller and Commerce Committee Members Push FAA to Address Pilot Fatigue
WASHINGTON, D.C.–In a letter to FAA Administrator Randolph (Randy) Babbitt, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV (D-WV), Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX), Chairman of the Aviation Operations, Safety and Security Subcommittee Byron Dorgan (D-ND), and Ranking Member of the Aviation Operations, Safety and Security Subcommittee Jim DeMint (R-SC) joined together along with Senators Snowe, Kerry, Klobuchar, Lautenberg, Thune, Begich, and Johanns and wrote that the issue of pilot fatigue must be addressed.
Press Releases 12/10/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Aviation Safety: Oversight of FAA Safety Initiatives
WASHINGTON, D.C.—In discussions about aviation safety, it is often cited that the United States has the safest airline industry in the world.
Press Releases 12/9/2009
Hearing Summary - Research Parks and Job Creation: Innovation Through Cooperation
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on Research Parks and Job Creation: Innovation Through Cooperation.
Press Releases 12/9/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Research Parks and Job Creation: Innovation Through Cooperation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—There is tremendous potential in our research parks. Around the country, we have laid a foundation for powerful innovation through cooperation – now we must strengthen and build on it.
Press Releases 12/7/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Announces That Aetna Has Filed $4.9 Billion Dollar Correction to Its 2008 Health Insurance Regulatory Filings
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the United States Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, announced that the Aetna Insurance Company recently made a $4.9 billion amendment to its 2008 health insurance regulatory filings.
Press Releases 12/7/2009
Rockefeller Statement on David Strickland Named as NHTSA Nominee
WASHINGTON, D.C.—John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement today regarding the nomination of Mr. David L. Strickland to be the Administrator of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
Press Releases 12/3/2009
Rockefeller Encouraged by National Maritime Announcement of Improved Mariner Applicant Processing
WASHINGTON, D.C.—John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement today regarding the U.S. Coast Guard’s recent revamping of its licensing process to certify mariners through its overseeing agency, the National Maritime Center, by launching an automated status notification program for mariner applicants.
Press Releases 12/3/2009
Executive Session: Committee Nominations 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 nominees...
Press Releases 12/3/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Continues Fight to Protect American Consumers and Combat Aggressive Sales Tactics on the Internet
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, sent a letter to three credit card companies—Visa, Inc., American Express, Inc., and MasterCard, Inc.—asking them what they know about the aggressive online sales tactics many online companies use to charge consumers’ credit cards for unwanted club memberships.
Press Releases 12/3/2009
Rockefeller Statement on Comcast-NBC Joint Venture
WASHINGTON, D.C.—John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement today regarding Comcast and General Electric’s (GE) agreement...
Press Releases 12/2/2009
Hearing Summary: Transportation Security Challenges Post-9/11
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on Transportation Security Challenges Post-9/11.
Press Releases 12/2/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Transportation Security Challenges Post-9/11
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Welcome Secretary Napolitano. Thank you for joining us today.
Press Releases 12/2/2009
Chairman Rockefeller’s Statement on Release of Rockefeller-Requested GAO Report Regarding International Commerce Security Mandates
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation will hold a hearing...
Press Releases 12/1/2009
Hearing Summary - Aviation Safety: Pilot Fatigue
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a subcommittee hearing today on Aviation Safety: Pilot Fatigue.
Press Releases 12/1/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Aviation Safety: Pilot Fatigue
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Good morning. Addressing pilot fatigue is an issue for which it has taken far too long to achieve meaningful reform. The travelling public deserves a better effort to make certain any plane on which they fly has an alert and well rested flight crew.
Press Releases 11/20/2009
Rockefeller and Hutchison Lead Call for Updates from Chrysler and GM on Dealership Restructuring Process
WASHINGTON, D.C. –John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Ranking Member Kay Bailey Hutchison led the call today from a bipartisan group of Senators for updates from Chrysler and General Motors (GM) on the restructuring process and related dealership closures. Senators Rockefeller and Hutchison secured promises from Chrysler and GM during a Committee hearing on the issue earlier this year that both companies would work during the restructuring process to address the concerns of dealers.
Press Releases 11/19/2009
Executive Session: Committee Legislative 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:
Press Releases 11/19/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Executive Session
WASHINGTON, D.C.—As we have a quorum, Senator Hutchison will make a motion to adopt the bills and a number of agreed to amendments. I want to briefly summarize the bills and accepted amendments, before the committee today.
Press Releases 11/18/2009
Hearing Summary: 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 11/18/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Nominations Hearing
WASHINGTON, D.C.--Good afternoon. I want to welcome and congratulate our nominees. I commend you for accepting your nation’s call to serve.
Press Releases 11/17/2009
Hearing Summary: Aggressive Sales Tactics on the Internet and Their Impact on American Consumers
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation held a full committee hearing today on Aggressive Sales Tactics on the Internet and Their Impact on American Consumers.
Press Releases 11/17/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Aggressive Sales Tactics on the Internet and Their Impact on Consumers
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Every day millions of consumers sit down in front of their computers to make travel plans, to send somebody flowers, or to order movie tickets.
Press Releases 11/17/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Releases New Investigative Report on Aggressive Sales Tactics on the Internet and Their Impact on American Consumers
Press Releases 11/10/2009
Dorgan, Rockefeller, Lautenberg Work to Keep NTSB at Forefront of Transportation Safety
WASHINGTON, D.C.— Senator Byron L. Dorgan, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security, Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator Frank R. Lautenberg, Chairman of the Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety and Security Subcommittee, issued the following statement today after introducing legislation to reauthorize the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
Press Releases 11/10/2009
Rockefeller, Kerry Work to Make Broadcast Television More Accessible for American Families
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator John F. Kerry, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Subcommittee on Communications, Technology, and the Internet, issued the following statement today after introducing the Satellite Television Extension and Localism Act of 2009 which reauthorizes the Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act of 2004 (SHVERA).
Press Releases 11/9/2009
President Signs Rockefeller-Hutchison Public Safety Communications Bill
WASHINGTON, D.C.—Senator John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Ranking Member, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, issued the following statement after President Obama signed S. 1694, a bill that extends the Public Safety Interoperable Communications (PSIC) grant program established under the Digital Television Transition and Public Safety Act of 2005 to remain available until expended through fiscal year 2012.
Press Releases 11/6/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Requests Information from Web Retailers in "Mystery Charges" Investigation
WASHINGTON, D.C.—John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, continued the Committee’s investigation into controversial “post-transaction” online business practices by sending letters yesterday to 16 e-retailers that appear to be involved in these practices.
Press Releases 11/4/2009
Hearing Summary - The Future of Ocean Governance: Building Our National Ocean Policy
Press Releases 11/4/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on The Future of Ocean Governance: Building Our National Ocean Policy
Press Releases 11/3/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Continues Fight for Health Insurance Industry Accountability and Affordable Health Care for Consumers
Press Releases 11/3/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Continues Fight for Health Insurance Industry Accountability and Affordable Health Care for Consumers
WASHINGTON, D.C.—John D. (Jay) Rockefeller IV, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, sent a letter yesterday to H. Edward Hanway, the CEO of CIGNA, raising serious questions about the way his company spends consumers’ health care premium dollars. The letter details newly released information about the percentage of consumers’ premium dollars that insurance companies spend on medical care, a measure known as the “medical loss ratio.”
Press Releases 11/2/2009
Chairman Rockefeller and Senate Commerce Committee Join with DHS to Strengthen American National Security
Press Releases 10/29/2009
House Passes Rockefeller-Hutchison Public Safety Communications Bill
Press Releases 10/29/2009
Hearing Summary: Reauthorization of the National Transportation Safety Board
Press Releases 10/29/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Reauthorization of the National Transportation Safety Board
Press Releases 10/28/2009
Hearing Summary - Combating Distracted Driving: Managing Behavioral and Technological Risks
Press Releases 10/28/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Combating Distracted Driving: Managing Behavioral and Technological Risks
Press Releases 10/28/2009
Rockefeller Statement on Northwest Airline Pilots Incident
Press Releases 10/28/2009
Rockefeller and Lautenberg Introduce Comprehensive Distracted Driving Prevention Bill
Press Releases 10/27/2009
Hearing Summary: Oversight of the Broadband Stimulus Programs in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
Press Releases 10/27/2009
Commerce Committee Approves Nominees
Press Releases 10/27/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Oversight of the Broadband Stimulus Programs in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
Press Releases 10/22/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on Release of Final Augustine Commission Report
Press Releases 10/22/2009
Coast Guard's Increased Authority to Interdict Submarines Smuggling Drugs into the United States Pays Off
Press Releases 10/22/2009
Chairmen Rockefeller and Waxman Statement on FCC Open Internet Rulemaking
Press Releases 10/21/2009
Hearing Summary - The Case for Space: Examining the Value
Press Releases 10/21/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on The Case for Space: Examining the Value
Press Releases 10/16/2009
Rockefeller Condemns EPA Decision to Begin Veto Process on Spruce Mine Permit in West Virginia
Press Releases 10/15/2009
Hearing Summary: Nominations Hearing
Press Releases 10/15/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Nominations Hearing
Press Releases 10/15/2009
Rockefeller and Hutchison Statement on Senate Passage of Bipartisan Public Safety Communications Bill
Press Releases 10/12/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on Recent Misleading Health Insurance Industry Report
Press Releases 10/9/2009
Rockefeller Encouraged by NASA Exploration for Water on the Moon
Press Releases 10/7/2009
Hearing Summary - Reauthorization of the Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act of 2004
Press Releases 10/7/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Reauthorization of the Satellite Home Viewer Extension and Reauthorization Act of 2004
Press Releases 10/6/2009
Hearing Summary - A World of Opportunity: Promoting Export Success for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
Press Releases 10/6/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on A World of Opportunity: Promoting Export Success for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
Press Releases 09/30/2009
Rockefeller: Any Senate Climate Legislation Should Solidify West Virginia and Coal's Future
Press Releases 09/30/2009
Rockefeller Commends NTIA and ICANN Partnership
Press Releases 09/30/2009
Rockefeller and Snowe Continue Fighting for Public-Private Teamwork to Ensure Cybersecurity for All Americans
Press Releases 09/25/2009
Rockefeller Applauds Department of Commerce Plan to Foster Healthy Entrepreneurial Growth and Innovation in the 21st Centruy
Press Releases 09/23/2009
Hearing Summary: Nominations Hearing
Press Releases 09/23/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Statement on Today's Nominations Hearing
Press Releases 09/22/2009
Rockefeller and Hutchison Introduce Bipartisan Public Safety Communications Bill
Press Releases 09/21/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on Preserving the Open Internet
Press Releases 09/17/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on the Interagency Ocean Policy Task Force Interim Report
Press Releases 09/16/2009
Hearing Summary: Options from the Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee
Press Releases 09/16/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Statement on Options from the Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee
Press Releases 09/16/2009
Chairman Rockefeller: Co-ops Are Not An Alternative to a Public Option
Press Releases 09/15/2009
Hearing Summary - Aviation Safety: The Hudson River Midair Collision and the Safety of Air Operations in Congested Space
Press Releases 09/15/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Statement on Aviation Safety: The Hudson River Midair Collision and the Safety of Air Operations in Congested Airspace
Press Releases 09/11/2009
Rockefeller Fights for West Virginia Surface Mining
Press Releases 09/11/2009
President Recognizes Commerce Committee Whistleblower Hearing in Joint Address to Congress
Press Releases 09/11/2009
Rockefeller's Statement for 9/11 Remembrance
Press Releases 09/9/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on Senate Passage of the Travel Promotion Act
Press Releases 08/31/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on the Child Safe Viewing Act Report
Press Releases 08/21/2009
Rockefeller Continues Pressing Health Insurance Industry for Answers
Press Releases 08/18/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on NTSB Investigation of NY Midair Collision
Press Releases 08/14/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Requests Information Regarding Airman Certificate Vetting Process
Press Releases 08/7/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Applauds the Senate's Confirmation of Nominees
Press Releases 08/6/2009
Hearing Summary: Waste, Fraud and Abuse in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program
Press Releases 08/6/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Waste, Fraud and Abuse in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program
WASHINGTON, D.C.--One of my top priorities as chairman of the Commerce Committee is maintaining our country’s role as the global leader in technological innovation.
Press Releases 08/6/2009
Hearing Summary - Aviation Safety: The Relationship Between Network and Regional Airlines
Press Releases 08/6/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Aviation Safety: The Relationship Between Network Airlines and Regional Airlines
Press Releases 08/5/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Questions Health Insurance Execs on Harmful "Purging" Practices Used Against Small Businesses Throughout America
Press Releases 08/5/2009
Executive Session: Committee Legislation Summary
Press Releases 08/5/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Executive Session
Press Releases 08/5/2009
Hearing Summary: Nominations Hearing
Press Releases 08/5/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Nominations Hearing
Press Releases 07/30/2009
Rockefeller, Boxer Applaud Funding for Rail Safety Grants
Press Releases 07/30/2009
Hearing Summary - Climate Services: Solutions from Commerce to Communities
Press Releases 07/30/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Climate Services: Solutions from Commerce to Communities
Press Releases 07/30/2009
Rockefeller Seeks Information on Health Care Co-ops
Press Releases 07/29/2009
Hearing Summary: Nominations Hearing
Press Releases 07/29/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Nominations Hearing
Press Releases 07/28/2009
Hearing Summary - Weathering the Storm: The Need for a National Hurricane Initiative
Press Releases 07/28/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Weathering the Storm: The Need for a National Hurricane Initiative
Press Releases 07/28/2009
Rockefeller Issues First Subpoena as Chairman of Senate Commerce Committee Demands Critical Answers for Internet Consumers
Press Releases 07/27/2009
Nominees Confirmed
Press Releases 07/24/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Applauds the Senate's Confirmation of FCC Nominees
Press Releases 07/24/2009
Rockefeller Calls for Audit of General Motors and Chrysler Terminations
Press Releases 07/22/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Rethinking the Children's Television Act for a Digital Media Age
Press Releases 07/22/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Advertising Trends and Consumer Protection
Press Releases 07/22/2009
Hearing Summary: Advertising Trends and Consumer Protection
Press Releases 07/22/2009
Hearing Summary: Rethinking the Children's Television Act for a Digital Media Age
Press Releases 07/21/2009
Rockefeller Applauds Senate Commerce Committee's Approval of FAA Reauthorization Bill
Press Releases 07/21/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Applauds Senate Commerce Committee's Extension of Critical Highway Programs
Press Releases 07/21/2009
Executive Session Committee Legislation Summary
Press Releases 07/20/2009
Chairman Rockefeller on the 40th Anniversary of the First Moon Landing
Press Releases 07/17/2009
Rockefeller and Hutchison Press DOT on Antitrust Immunity Cases
Press Releases 07/16/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Statement on NASA Nominees Confirmed
Press Releases 07/16/2009
Hearing Summary: Competition in the Health Care Marketplace
Press Releases 07/16/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Competition in the Health Care Marketplace
Press Releases 07/15/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Alarmed by Magnitude of Cyber Attacks
Press Releases 07/14/2009
Hearing Summary-The Economy and Fraud: Protecting Consumers During Downward Economic Times
Press Releases 07/14/2009
Rockefeller, Hutchison, Dorgan, Demint Introduce Bipartisan Aviation Bill
Press Releases 07/13/2009
Chairman Rockefeller and Ranking Member Hutchison Statements on the Nomination of Chris Bertram
Press Releases 07/10/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Adds Another Company to His Online "Mystery Charges" Investigation
Press Releases 07/9/2009
Hearing Summary: Nominations Hearing
Press Releases 07/8/2009
Executive Session Committee Legislation Summary
Press Releases 07/8/2009
Chairman Rockefeller's Remarks on Today's Nominees
Press Releases 06/30/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Calls for Further Investigation into Seafood Inspection Practices
Press Releases 06/29/2009
Chairman Rockefeller Calls for Safe and Secure Disposal of Sensitive Consumer Information