[House Report 112-561]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
Union Calendar No. 402
112th Congress, 2d Session - - - - - - - - - - - - House Report 112-561
ACTIVITY REPORT
of the
COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE
of the
U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
(THROUGH MAY 31, 2012)
June 29, 2012.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on the
State of the Union and ordered to be printed
LETTER OF TRANSMITTAL
----------
House of Representatives,
Committee on Energy and Commerce,
Washington, DC, June 29, 2012.
Hon. Karen L. Haas,
Clerk, House of Representatives,
Washington, DC.
Dear Ms. Haas: Pursuant to clause 1(d) of rule XI of the
Rules of the House of Representatives, I present herewith the
third semi-annual report on the activity of the Committee on
Energy and Commerce for the 112th Congress.
Sincerely,
Fred Upton,
Chairman.
C O N T E N T S
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Page
Membership and Organization...................................... 1
Legislative and Oversight Activity............................... 9
Full Committee............................................... 9
Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade........... 11
Subcommittee on Communications and Technology................ 19
Subcommittee on Energy and Power............................. 31
Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy.................. 49
Subcommittee on Health....................................... 57
Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations................. 83
Hearings Held Pursuant to Clauses 2(n), (o), or (p) of Rule XI... 95
MEMBERSHIP AND ORGANIZATION
one hundred twelth congress
Committee on Energy and Commerce
(Ratio 31-23)
FRED UPTON, Michigan, Chairman
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California, JOE BARTON, Texas,
Ranking Member Chairman Emeritus
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan, CLIFF STEARNS, Florida
Chairman Emeritus ED WHITFIELD, Kentucky
EDWARD J. MARKEY, Massachusetts JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois
EDOLPHUS TOWNS, New York JOSEPH R. PITTS, Pennsylvania
FRANK PALLONE, Jr., New Jersey MARY BONO MACK, California
BOBBY L. RUSH, Illinois GREG WALDEN, Oregon
ANNA G. ESHOO, California LEE TERRY, Nebraska
ELIOT L. ENGEL, New York MIKE ROGERS, Michigan
GENE GREEN, Texas SUE WILKINS MYRICK, North
DIANA DeGETTE, Colorado Carolina,
LOIS CAPPS, California Vice Chairman
MICHAEL F. DOYLE, Pennsylvania JOHN SULLIVAN, Oklahoma
JAN SCHAKOWSKY, Illinois TIM MURPHY, Pennsylvania
CHARLES A. GONZALEZ, Texas MICHAEL C. BURGESS, Texas
TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
MIKE ROSS, Arkansas BRIAN P. BILBRAY, California
JIM MATHESON, Utah CHARLES F. BASS, New Hampshire
G.K. BUTTERFIELD, North Carolina PHIL GINGREY, Georgia
JOHN BARROW, Georgia STEVE SCALISE, Louisiana
DORIS O. MATSUI, California ROBERT E. LATTA, Ohio
DONNA M. CHRISTENSEN, CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS,
Virgin Islands* Washington
KATHY CASTOR, Florida** GREGG HARPER, Mississippi
JOHN P. SARBANES, Maryland*** LEONARD LANCE, New Jersey
BILL CASSIDY, Louisiana
BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
PETE OLSON, Texas
DAVID B. McKINLEY, West Virginia
CORY GARDNER, Colorado
MIKE POMPEO, Kansas
ADAM KINZINGER, Illinois
H. MORGAN GRIFFITH, Virginia
----------
*Representative Jane Harman (D-CA) resigned from the Committee on
Energy and Commerce on February 28, 2011. Representative Donna M.
Christensen (D-VI) was elected to the Committee on Energy and Commerce
on March 8, 2011, pursuant to H. Res. 149.
**Representative Anthony D. Weiner (D-NY) resigned from the Committee
on Energy and Commerce on June 21, 2011. Representative Kathy Castor
(D-FL) was elected to the Committee on Energy and Commerce on June 22,
2011, pursuant to H. Res. 321.
***Representative Jay Inslee (D-WA) resigned from the Committee on
Energy and Commerce on March 20, 2012. Representative John P. Sarbanes
(D-MD) was elected to the Committee on Energy and Commerce on March 20,
2012, pursuant to H. Res. 590.
Subcommittee Memberships and Jurisdiction
Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade
(Ratio 14-9)
MARY BONO MACK, California,
Chairman
G.K. BUTTERFIELD, North Carolina MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee,
Ranking Member Vice Chairman
CHARLES A. GONZALEZ, Texas CLIFF STEARNS, Florida
JIM MATHESON, Utah CHARLES F. BASS, New Hampshire
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan GREGG HARPER, Mississippi
EDOLPHUS TOWNS, New York LEONARD LANCE, New Jersey
BOBBY L. RUSH, Illinois BILL CASSIDY, Louisiana
JAN SCHAKOWSKY, Illinois BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
JOHN P. SARBANES, Maryland PETE OLSON, Texas
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California (Ex Officio)ID B. McKINLEY, West Virginia
MIKE POMPEO, Kansas
ADAM KINZINGER, Illinois
JOE BARTON, Texas
FRED UPTON, Michigan (Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: Interstate and foreign commerce, including all trade
matters within the jurisdiction of the full committee; Regulation of
commercial practices (the FTC), including sports-related matters;
Consumer affairs and consumer protection, including privacy matters
generally; Consumer product safety (the CPSC); Product liability; Motor
vehicle safety; and, Regulation of travel, tourism, and time.
Subcommittee on Communications and Technology
(Ratio 16-11)
GREG WALDEN, Oregon, Chairman
ANNA G. ESHOO, California, LEE TERRY, Nebraska,
Ranking Member Vice Chairman
EDWARD J. MARKEY, Massachusetts CLIFF STEARNS, Florida
MICHAEL F. DOYLE, Pennsylvania JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois
DORIS O. MATSUI, California MARY BONO MACK, California
JOHN BARROW, Georgia MIKE ROGERS, Michigan
DONNA M. CHRISTENSEN, MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
Virgin Islands BRIAN P. BILBRAY, California
EDOLPHUS TOWNS, New York CHARLES F. BASS, New Hampshire
FRANK PALLONE, Jr., New Jersey PHIL GINGREY, Georgia
BOBBY L. RUSH, Illinois STEVE SCALISE, Louisiana
DIANA DeGETTE, Colorado ROBERT E. LATTA, Ohio
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan, BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
(Ex Officio--non voting) ADAM KINZINGER, Illinois
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California JOE BARTON, Texas
(Ex Officio) FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: Interstate and foreign telecommunications including, but
not limited to, all telecommunication and information transmission by
broadcast, radio, wire, microwave, satellite, or other mode.
Subcommittee on Energy and Power
(Ratio 16-11)
ED WHITFIELD, Kentucky, Chairman
BOBBY L. RUSH, Illinois, JOHN SULLIVAN, Oklahoma,
Ranking Member Vice Chairman
KATHY CASTOR, Florida JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois
JOHN P. SARBANES, Maryland GREG WALDEN, Oregon
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan LEE TERRY, Nebraska
EDWARD J. MARKEY, Massachusetts MICHAEL C. BURGESS, Texas
ELIOT L. ENGEL, New York BRIAN P. BILBRAY, California
GENE GREEN, Texas STEVE SCALISE, Louisiana
LOIS CAPPS, California CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS, Washington
MICHAEL F. DOYLE, Pennsylvania PETE OLSON, Texas
CHARLES A. GONZALEZ, Texas DAVID B. McKINLEY, West Virginia
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California CORY GARDNER, Colorado
(Ex Officio) MIKE POMPEO, Kansas
H. MORGAN GRIFFITH, Virginia
JOE BARTON, Texas
FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: National energy policy generally; Fossil energy,
renewable energy resources and synthetic fuels, energy conservation,
energy information; Energy regulation and utilization; Utility issues
and regulation of nuclear facilities; Interstate energy compacts;
Nuclear energy; The Clean Air Act and air emissions; and, All laws,
programs, and government activities affecting such matters.
Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy
(Ratio 14-9)
JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois, Chairman
GENE GREEN, Texas, TIM MURPHY, Pennsylvania,
Ranking Member Vice Chairman
TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin ED WHITFIELD, Kentucky
G.K. BUTTERFIELD, North Carolina JOSEPH R. PITTS, Pennsylvania
JOHN BARROW, Georgia MARY BONO MACK, California
DORIS O. MATSUI, California JOHN SULLIVAN, Oklahoma
FRANK PALLONE, JR., New Jersey CHARLES F. BASS, New Hampshire
DIANA DeGETTE, Colorado ROBERT E. LATTA, Ohio
LOIS CAPPS, California CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS, Washington
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan, GREGG HARPER, Mississippi
(Ex Officio--non voting) BILL CASSIDY, Louisiana
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California CORY GARDNER, Colorado
(Ex Officio) JOE BARTON, Texas
FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: All matters relating to soil and water contamination; The
regulation of solid, hazardous, and nuclear wastes; The regulation of
industrial plant security; The regulation of drinking water; and, The
regulation of toxic substances and noise.
Subcommittee on Health
(Ratio 16-11)
JOSEPH R. PITTS, Pennsylvania,
Chairman
FRANK PALLONE, Jr., New Jersey, MICHAEL C. BURGESS, Texas,
Ranking Member Vice Chairman
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan ED WHITFIELD, Kentucky
EDOLPHUS TOWNS, New York JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois
ELIOT L. ENGEL, New York MIKE ROGERS, Michigan
LOIS CAPPS, California SUE WILKINS MYRICK, North Carolina
JAN SCHAKOWSKY, Illinois TIM MURPHY, Pennsylvania
CHARLES A. GONZALEZ, Texas MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin PHIL GINGREY, Georgia
MIKE ROSS, Arkansas ROBERT E. LATTA, Ohio
JIM MATHESON, Utah CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS, Washington
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California LEONARD LANCE, New Jersey
(Ex Officio) BILL CASSIDY, Louisiana
BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
JOE BARTON, Texas
FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: Public health and quarantine; hospital construction;
mental health and research; biomedical programs and health protection
in general, including public and private health insurance; food and
drugs; and, drug abuse.
Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
(Ratio 14-9)
CLIFF STEARNS, Florida, Chairman
DIANA DeGETTE, Colorado, LEE TERRY, Nebraska
Ranking Member SUE WILKINS MYRICK, North Carolina
JAN SCHAKOWSKY, Illinois JOHN SULLIVAN, Oklahoma
MIKE ROSS, Arkansas TIM MURPHY, Pennsylvania
KATHY CASTOR, Florida MICHAEL C. BURGESS, Texas
EDWARD J. MARKEY, Massachusetts MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
GENE GREEN, Texas BRIAN P. BILBRAY, California
DONNA M. CHRISTENSEN, Virgin Islands PHIL GINGREY, Georgia
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan STEVE SCALISE, Louisiana
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California CORY GARDNER, Colorado
(Ex Officio) H. MORGAN GRIFFITH, Virginia
JOE BARTON, Texas
FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: Responsibility for oversight of agencies, departments,
and programs within the jurisdiction of the full committee, and for
conducting investigations within such jurisdiction.
COMMITTEE STAFF
Majority Committee Staff
Gary Andres, Staff Director
Michael D. Bloomquist, General
Counsel
Michael Beckerman, Deputy Staff
Director
Alexa Marrero, Communications
Director
Maryam S. Brown, Chief Counsel,
Energy and Power
Neil Fried, Chief Counsel,
Communications and Technology
Todd Harrison, Chief Counsel,
Oversight and Investigations
Ryan Long, Chief Counsel, Health
David McCarthy, Chief Counsel,
Environment and the Economy
John Mullan, Chief Counsel,
Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade
Nick Abraham, Staff Assistant
R. Clayton Alspach, Counsel
Carl Anderson, Counsel
Paige Anderson, Policy
Coordinator, Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade
Charlotte Baker, Press Secretary
Ray Baum, Senior Policy Advisor
Sean Bonyun, Deputy Communications
Director
Anita Bradley, Senior Policy
Advisor to Chairman Emeritus
Allison Busbee, Legislative Clerk
Annie Caputo, Professional Staff
Member
Karen Christian, Deputy Chief
Counsel, Oversight and
Investigations
Howard Cohen, Chief Health Counsel
Sean Corcoran, Office Manager
Gerald Couri, Senior Environmental
Policy Advisor
Patrick Currier, Counsel
Aaron S. Cutler, Deputy Policy
Director
Martin Dannenfelser, Senior
Advisor, Health Policy and
Coalitions
Nicholas Degani, Detailee, FCC
Brenda Destro, Professional Staff
Member
Andrew Duberstein, Deputy Press
Secretary
Nancy Dunlap, Fellow, Health
Paul Edattel, Professional Staff
Member
Garrett Golding, Professional
Staff Member
Julie Goon, Senior Health Policy
Advisor
Michael Gruber, Senior Policy
Advisor
Sean Hayes, Counsel
Cory Hicks, Policy Coordinator,
Energy and Power
Brian ``Kirby'' Howard,
Legislative Clerk
Deborah Keller, Press Secretary
Peter E. Kielty, Assistant General
Counsel
Heidi King, Chief Economist
Jason Knox, Counsel
Wayne Laufert, Detailee, GPO
Ben Lieberman, Counsel
Brian McCullough, Senior
Professional Staff Member
Carly McWilliams, Legislative
Clerk
David Mehring, Detailee, OIG/HHS
Mary Neumayr, Senior Energy
Counsel
Nika Nourmohammadi, New Media
Specialist
Kathryn Novaria, Legislative Clerk
John O'Shea, Senior Health Policy
Advisor
Monica Popp, Professional Staff
Member
Andrew Powaleny, Deputy Press
Secretary
David Redl, Counsel
Tina Richards, Counsel
Krista Carpenter Rosenthall,
Counsel to Chairman Emeritus
Chris Sarley, Policy Coordinator,
Environment and the Economy
Charlotte Savercool, Special
Assistant to the Staff Director
Brett Scott, Staff Assistant
Alan M. Slobodin, Chief
Investigative Counsel
Samuel Spector, Counsel
Peter Spencer, Professional Staff
Member
Heidi Stirrup, Policy Coordinator,
Health
Roger Stoltz, Detailee, GAO
John Stone, Counsel
Karen Summar, Fellow, Health
James Thomas, Policy Coordinator,
Oversight and Investigations
Tim Torres, Deputy Director,
Information Technology
Daniel Tyrrell, Counsel
Linda Walker, Coordinator,
Administrative and Human Resources
Shannon Weinberg, Counsel
Chris Wells, Detailee, GPO
Tom Wilbur, Staff Assistant
Jean Woodrow, Director,
Information Technology
Alexander Yergin, Legislative
Clerk
Minority Committee Staff
Philip S. Barnett, Staff Director
Karen Nelson, Deputy Staff
Director, Health
Roger C. Sherman, Chief Counsel
and Staff Director, Communications
and Technology
Karen Lightfoot, Communications
Director and Senior Policy Advisor
Michelle Ash, Chief Counsel,
Commerce, Manufacturing, Trade
Brian Cohen, Staff Director,
Oversight and Investigations and
Senior Policy Advisor
Greg Dotson, Staff Director,
Energy and Environment
Ruth Katz, Chief Public Health
Counsel
Statia Cardille, Deputy Chief
Counsel
Jeff Baran, Senior Counsel
Tiffany Benjamin, Senior Counsel
Alison Cassady, Senior
Professional Staff Member
Shawn Chang, Senior Counsel
Amy Hall, Senior Professional
Staff Member
Purvee Kempf, Senior Counsel
Felipe Mendoza, Senior Counsel
Rachel Sher, Senior Counsel
Alexandra Teitz, Senior Counsel
Michael Aylward, Professional
Staff Member
Jacqueline Cohen, Counsel
Kiren Gopal, Counsel
Margaret Mccarthy, Professional
Staff Member
Anne Morris Reid, Professional
Staff Member
Matt Siegler, Counsel
Jennifer Berenholz, Chief Clerk
Elizabeth Ertel, Deputy Clerk
Elizabeth Letter, Assistant Press
Secretary
Kat Skiles, Online Communications
Director
Alli Corr, Policy Analyst
Caitlin Haberman, Policy Analyst
Will Wallace, Policy Analyst
Alvin Banks, Investigator
Kara Van Stralen, Special
Assistant
Stephen Salsbury, Staff Assistant
Legislative and Oversight Activity
Full Committee
(Ratio 31-23)
FRED UPTON, Michigan,
Chairman
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California, JOE BARTON, Texas,
Ranking Member Chairman Emeritus
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan, CLIFF STEARNS, Florida
Chairman Emeritus ED WHITFIELD, Kentucky
EDWARD J. MARKEY, Massachusetts JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois
EDOLPHUS TOWNS, New York JOSEPH R. PITTS, Pennsylvania
FRANK PALLONE, Jr., New Jersey MARY BONO MACK, California
BOBBY L. RUSH, Illinois GREG WALDEN, Oregon
ANNA G. ESHOO, California LEE TERRY, Nebraska
ELIOT L. ENGEL, New York MIKE ROGERS, Michigan
GENE GREEN, Texas SUE WILKINS MYRICK, North
DIANA DeGETTE, Colorado Carolina,
LOIS CAPPS, California Vice Chairman
MICHAEL F. DOYLE, Pennsylvania JOHN SULLIVAN, Oklahoma
JAN SCHAKOWSKY, Illinois TIM MUPHY, Pennsylvania
CHARLES A. GONZALEZ, Texas MICHAEL C. BURGESS, Texas
TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
MIKE ROSS, Arkansas BRIAN P. BILBRAY, California
JIM MATHESON, Utah CHARLES F. BASS, New Hampshire
G.K. BUTTERFIELD, North Carolina PHIL GINGREY, Georgia
JOHN BARROW, Georgia STEVE SCALISE, Louisiana
DORIS O. MATSUI, California ROBERT E. LATTA, Ohio
DONNA M. CHRISTENSEN, CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS,
Virgin Islands Washington
KATHY CASTOR, Florida GREGG HARPER, Mississippi
JOHN P. SARBANES, Maryland LEONARD LANCE, New Jersey
BILL CASSIDY, Louisiana
BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
PETE OLSON, Texas
DAVID B. McKINLEY, West Virginia
CORY GARDNER, Colorado
MIKE POMPEO, Kansas
ADAM KINZINGER, Illinois
H. MORGAN GRIFFITH, Virginia
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
The Consequence of Obamacare: Impact on Medicaid and State Health Care
Reform
On February 9, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
held an oversight hearing on the Consequences of Obamacare:
Impact on Medicaid and State Health Care Reform. At the
hearing, the Committee heard from governors regarding their
experiences with the Federal requirements included in the
Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The Committee
received testimony from the Governors of Massachusetts,
Mississippi, and Utah.
HEARINGS HELD
Hearing entitled ``The Consequences of Obamacare: Impact on
Medicaid and State Health Care Reform.'' (March 1, 2011) Serial
Number 112-11.
Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade
(Ratio 14-9)
MARY BONO MACK, California,
Chairman
G.K. BUTTERFIELD, North Carolina, MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee,
Ranking Member Vice Chairman
CHARLES A. GONZALEZ, Texas CLIFF STEARNS, Florida
JIM MATHESON, Utah CHARLES F. BASS, New Hampshire
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan GREGG HARPER, Mississippi
EDOLPHUS TOWNS, New York LEONARD LANCE, New Jersey
BOBBY L. RUSH, Illinois BILL CASSIDY, Louisiana
JAN SCHAKOWSKY, Illinois BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
JOHN P. SARBANES, Maryland PETE OLSON, Texas
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California DAVID B. McKINLEY, West Virginia
(Ex Officio) MIKE POMPEO, Kansas
ADAM KINZINGER, Illinois
JOE BARTON, Texas
FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: Interstate and foreign commerce, including all trade
matters within the jurisdiction of the full committee; Regulation of
commercial practices (the FTC), including sports-related matters;
Consumer affairs and consumer protection, including privacy matters
generally; Consumer product safety (the CPSC); Product liability; Motor
vehicle safety; and, Regulation of travel, tourism, and time.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
Enhancing CPSC Authority and Discretion Act of 2011
(H.R. 1939)
To provide the Consumer Product Safety Commission with
greater authority and discretion in enforcing the consumer
product safety laws, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 1939 amends the Consumer Product Safety Act and the
Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act of 2008 (CPSIA) to
reduce the regulatory burdens created by CPSIA where possible
to do so without harming consumers; to enhance the Consumer
Production Safety Commission's (CPSC) ability to investigate
complaints and prioritize based on risk; and to improve the
utility and accuracy of information in the CPSC's public
database.
Legislative History
On April 7, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Discussion
Draft of H.R. ___, a bill that would revise the Consumer
Product Safety Improvement Act.''
On May 12, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade met in open markup session and
forwarded a Committee Print entitled ``Enhancing CPSC Authority
and Discretion Act of 2011'' to the full Committee, as amended,
by a voice vote.
On May 23, 2011, H.R. 1939 was introduced by Mrs. Bono
Mack, referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and
referred to the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and
Trade.
On May 25 and 26, 2011, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in open markup session to consider H.R. 1939.
Members were recognized to make opening statements on H.R.
1939, but the Chairman did not call up the bill.
Secure and Fortify Electronic Data Act or SAFE Data Act
(H.R. 2577)
To protect consumers by requiring reasonable security
policies and procedures to protect data containing personal
information, and to provide for nationwide notice in the event
of a security breach.
Summary
H.R. 2577 requires the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to
promulgate regulations requiring any person engaged in
interstate commerce that owns or possesses data containing
personal information to establish and implement reasonable
security policies and procedures to protect such information.
The bill also requires notification to Federal authorities in
the event that protection of personal information is
compromised and preempts State breach notification
requirements.
Legislative History
On June 15, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing on a Committee Print
entitled the ``Secure and Fortify Electronic Data Act'' or
``SAFE Data Act.''
On July 18, 2011, Mrs. Bono Mack introduced H.R. 2577,
which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On July 20, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade met in open markup session, and
forwarded the bill to the full Committee, as amended, by a
voice vote.
To Provide the Consumer Product Safety Commission with Greater
Authority and Discretion in Enforcing the Consumer Product Safety Laws,
and for Other Purposes
(H.R. 2715)
To provide the Consumer Product Safety Commission with
greater authority and discretion in enforcing the consumer
product safety laws, and for other purposes.
Summary
The legislation will provide the Consumer Product Safety
Commission (CPSC) with greater flexibility to reduce regulatory
burdens, particularly for small businesses.
Legislative History
H.R. 2715 was introduced by Mrs. Bono Mack on August 1,
2011, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
H.R. 2715 was then considered in the House under suspension of
the Rules and passed by a roll call vote of 421 yeas and 2 nays
(Roll Call No. 683).
On August 1, 2011, H.R. 2715 was received in the Senate,
read twice, considered, read a third time, and passed, without
amendment, by unanimous consent.
H.R. 2715 was presented to the President on August 5, 2011,
and the President signed the bill on August 12, 2011 (Public
Law 112-28).
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
A Review of CPSIA and CPSC Resources
On February 17, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``A Review of
CPSIA and CPSC Resources.'' The purpose of the hearing was to
develop an understanding of the problems created by Consumer
Product Safety Improvement Act and review the Commission's
budget. The Subcommittee received testimony from the Chairman
and a commissioner of the Consumer Product Safety Commission,
and representatives of the Handmade Toy Alliance, Association
of Home Appliance Manufacturers, Learning Resources Inc., and
Kids in Danger.
Made in America: Innovations in Job Creation and
Economic Growth
On March 3, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing to obtain an overview
of the multiple facets of job creation in today's economic and
regulatory climate. The Subcommittee received testimony from
representatives of the Department of Commerce, the U.S. Chamber
of Commerce, the State of Georgia, the National Association of
Manufacturers, the American Action Forum, the Financial
Services Roundtable, the Council on Competitiveness, Solar
Energy Industries Association, and the Center for American
Progress.
Made in America: Increasing Jobs Through Exports
and Trade
On March 16, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing to examine the
Administration's efforts to promote trade and increase export
opportunities and receive the views of private enterprise
stakeholders on technical and other non-tariff trade barriers.
The Subcommittee received testimony from representatives of the
Department of Commerce, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the
Business Software Alliance, the Center for Trade Policy Studies
at CATO Institute, Cessna Aircraft Company, and the Capstone
Turbine Corporation.
Warning: The Growing Danger of Prescription Drug Diversion
On April 14, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Warning: The
Growing Danger of Prescription Drug Diversion.'' The hearing
was held to investigate the problem of the misuse of
prescription drugs. Overdose rates of prescription drugs have
increased five-fold since 1990, and unintentional drug
poisoning deaths are now the second leading cause of accidental
death in America. The Subcommittee received testimony from the
Governor of Florida, the Governor of Kentucky, the Office of
National Drug Control Policy, and the Drug Enforcement
Administration. There was also testimony from family members of
individuals affected by prescription drug abuse, the medical
community, drug companies, anti-drug organizations, and other
experts.
The Threat of Data Theft to American Consumers
On May 4, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing to examine risks
related to data breaches, the state of ongoing investigations,
current industry data security practices, and available
technology. It was reported that in April 2011 alone, over 30
data breaches occurred at hospitals and medical provider
offices, universities, insurance companies, airlines,
technology companies, banks, and at the Federal, State and
local government levels. These breaches occurred through
phishing, theft of computers, and hacking, impacting at least
99 million records. The Subcommittee received testimony from
representatives of the Federal Trade Commission's Bureau of
Consumer Protection, the U.S. Secret Service's Criminal
Investigative Division, the Center for Democracy and
Technology, and an expert from the computer science field.
Sony and Epsilon: Lessons for Data Security Legislation
On June 2, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Sony and
Epsilon: Lessons for Data Security Legislation.'' The purpose
of the hearing was to examine the risks of the recent data
breaches at Epsilon and Sony and the state of the ongoing
investigations into each incident. The Subcommittee received
testimony from the general counsel of Epsilon Data Management,
LLC and the president of Sony Network Entertainment
International.
Internet Privacy: The Views of the FTC, the FCC, and NTIA
On July 14, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade and the Subcommittee on Communications
and Technology held a joint hearing entitled ``Internet
Privacy: The Views of the FTC, the FCC, and NTIA.'' The hearing
examined
the views of several Federal agencies regarding the regulation
of Internet privacy. The Subcommittees received testimony from
the Honorable Edith Ramirez, Commissioner of the Federal Trade
Commission, the Honorable Julius Genachowski, Chairman of the
Federal Communications Commission, and the Honorable Lawrence
Strickling, the Assistant Secretary for Communications and
Information and the Administrator of the National
Telecommunication and Information Administration.
Internet Privacy: The Impact and Burden of EU Regulation
On September 15, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Internet
Privacy: The Impact and Burden of EU Regulation.'' The
Subcommittee examined the European Union's (EU) privacy and
data collection regulations and their impact on the Internet
economy. Witnesses included a representative from the
Department of Commerce and other policy experts.
Protecting Children's Privacy in an Electronic World
On October 5, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Protecting
Children's Privacy in an Electronic World.'' The purpose of the
hearing was to examine existing protections for children's
online privacy and their adequacy. The Subcommittee examined
the provisions of the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act
(COPPA) and the Federal Trade Commission's recent proposal to
revise its COPPA rule. The Subcommittee received testimony from
the Federal Trade Commission, SSP Blue, Association for
Competitive Technology, Family Online Safety Institute, a
communications professor from American University, and Common
Sense Media.
Food Marketing: Can `Voluntary' Government Restrictions Improve
Children's Health?
On October 12, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health and the
Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade held a joint
hearing entitled ``Food Marketing: Can `Voluntary' Government
Restrictions Improve Children's Health?'' The hearing
investigated the document entitled ``Preliminary Proposed
Nutrition Principles to Guide Industry Self-Regulatory
Efforts,'' which was issued by the Interagency Working Group.
The Subcommittees received testimony from representatives of
the Department of Agriculture, the Federal Trade Commission,
and stakeholders and policy experts.
Understanding Consumer Attitudes About Privacy
On October 13, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled
``Understanding Consumer Attitudes About Privacy.'' The hearing
examined consumers' attitudes toward privacy as reflected by
their utilization and manipulation of existing privacy
controls. Witnesses included stakeholders and policy experts.
Internet Gaming: Is There a Safe Bet?
On October 25, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Internet
Gaming: Is There a Safe Bet?'' The purpose of the hearing was
to examine the status of Internet gaming in the United States
and to consider how consumers and other stakeholders would be
affected if current legal restrictions were eased. The
Subcommittee received testimony from the Poker Players
Alliance, National Indian Gaming Association, Fair Play USA,
National Council on Problem Gambling, a professor from the
Chapman University School of Law, and the Annenberg Public
Policy Center.
Internet Gaming: Regulating in an Online World
On November 18, 2011, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Internet
Gaming: Regulating in an Online World.'' The purpose of the
hearing was to examine the status of internet gaming in the
United States. The Subcommittee received testimony from the
Honorable Barney Frank (MA-4), the Honorable Frank Wolf (VA-
10), the Honorable John Campbell (CA-48), State officials from
Nevada and New Hampshire, and various stakeholders.
Where the Jobs Are: Employment Trends and Analysis
On February 15, 2012, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Where the
Jobs Are: Employment Trends and Analysis.'' This was the first
in a series of hearings to examine employment and ways to
revitalize job creation. The purpose of the hearing was to
explore current employment trends, with discussion of factors
bearing on job growth. The Subcommittee received testimony from
a Cornell University economics professor, Competitive
Enterprise Institute, Boston Consulting Group Inc., and the
Center for Economic and Policy Research.
Prescription Drug Diversion: Combating the Scourge
On March 1, 2012, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Prescription
Drug Abuse: Combating the Scourge.'' The purpose of the hearing
was to examine both Federal and private-sector efforts to
combat diversion of prescription drugs in the pharmaceutical
industry. The Subcommittee received testimony from the Office
of National Drug Control Policy, U.S Drug Enforcement Agency,
Florida Attorney General, Kentucky Attorney General, Ohio
Senior Assistant Attorney General, Healthcare Distribution
Management Association, and the National Community Pharmacists
Association.
Motor Vehicle Safety Provision in House and Senate Highway Bills
On March 22, 2012, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Motor
Vehicle Safety Provisions in House and Senate Highway Bills.''
The purpose of the hearing was to discuss the views of the
Administration and other stakeholders concerning the vehicle
safety provisions included in the House and Senate highway
bills. The Subcommittee received testimony from Congressman
John Lewis of Georgia, the Administrator of the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Alliance of Automobile
Manufacturers, American Bus Association, Global Manufacturers,
Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, United Motorcoach
Association, and Consumers Union.
Balancing Privacy and Innovation: Does the President's Proposal Tip the
Scale?
On March 29, 2012, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Balancing
Privacy and Innovation: Does the President's Proposal Tip the
Scale?'' The purpose of the hearing was to examine the Obama
Administration's proposed framework entitled ``Consumer Data
Privacy in a Networked World: A Framework for Protecting
Privacy and Promoting Innovation and the Global Digital
Economy'' and receive the views of stakeholders. The
Subcommittee received testimony from the Chairman of the
Federal Trade Commission, the Assistant Secretary for
Communication and Information of the U.S. Department of
Commerce, TechFreedom, Online Publishers Association, the
Association for Competitive Technology, Center for Democracy &
Technology, and the Interactive Advertising Bureau.
Where the Jobs Are: Can American Manufacturing Thrive Again?
On April 19, 2012, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Where the
Jobs Are: Can American Manufacturing Thrive Again?'' This was
the second in a series of hearings examining employment and
ways to revitalize job creation. The purpose of the hearing was
to examine how manufacturing competiveness is affected by the
current global economy and to identify policies that could aid
in the sector's recovery. The Subcommittee received testimony
from the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Commerce,
Information Technology & Innovation Foundation, National
Association of Manufacturers, Deloitte & Touche USA LLP, and
the North Carolina Biotechnology Center.
Where the Jobs Are: Promoting Tourism to America
On May 16, 2012, the Subcommittee on Commerce,
Manufacturing, and Trade held a hearing entitled ``Where the
Jobs Are: Promoting Tourism to America.'' This was the third in
a series of hearings examining employment and ways to
revitalize job creation. The purpose of the hearing was to
review the Obama Administration's recent proposal for expanding
tourism and hear from other stakeholders. The Subcommittee
received testimony from Congresswoman Mazie K. Hirono of
Hawaii, the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Manufacturing
and Services, the Corporation for Travel Promotion (Brand USA),
U.S. Travel Association, Marriott International, Greater Palm
Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau, and a professor from
East Carolina University.
HEARINGS HELD
Hearing entitled ``A Review of CPSIA and CPSC Resources.''
(February 17, 2011) Serial Number 112-10.
Hearing entitled ``Made in America: Innovations in Job
Creation and Economic Growth.'' (March 3, 2011) Serial Number
112-15.
Hearing entitled ``Made in America: Increasing Jobs through
Exports and Trade.'' (March 16, 2011) Serial Number 112-21.
Hearing entitled ``Discussion Draft of H.R. ___, a bill
that would revise the Consumer Product Safety Improvement
Act.'' (April 7, 2011) Serial Number 112-34.
Hearing entitled ``Warning: The Growing Danger of
Prescription Drug Diversion.'' (April 14, 2011) Serial Number
112-39.
Hearing entitled ``The Threat of Data Theft to American
Consumers.'' (May 4, 2011) Serial Number 112-44.
Hearing entitled ``Sony and Epsilon: Lessons for Data
Security Legislation.'' (June 2, 2011) Serial Number 112-55.
Hearing entitled ``Discussion Draft of H.R. ___, a bill to
require greater protection for sensitive consumer data and
timely notification in case of breach.'' (June 15, 2011) Serial
Number 112-62.
Hearing entitled ``Internet Privacy: The Views of the FTC,
the FCC, and NTIA.'' (July 14, 2011) Serial Number 112-75.
Hearing entitled ``Internet Privacy: The Impact and Burden
of EU Regulation.'' (September 15, 2011) Serial Number 112-86.
Hearing entitled ``Protecting Children's Privacy in an
Electronic World.'' (October 5, 2011) Serial Number 112-91.
Hearing entitled ``Food Marketing: Can `Voluntary'
Government Restrictions Improve Children's Health?'' (October
12, 2011) Serial Number 112-94.
Hearing entitled ``Understanding Consumer Attitudes About
Privacy.'' (October 13, 2011) Serial Number 112-96.
Hearing entitled ``Internet Gaming: Is There a Safe Bet?''
(October 25, 2011) Serial Number 112-100.
Hearing entitled ``Internet Gaming: Regulating in an Online
World.'' (November 18, 2011) Serial Number 112-105.
Hearing entitled ``Where the Jobs Are: Employment Trends
and Analysis.'' (February 15, 2012) Serial Number 112-115.
Hearing entitled ``Prescription Drug Diversion: Combating
the Scourge.'' (March 1, 2012) Serial Number 112-122.
Hearing entitled ``Motor Vehicle Safety Provisions in House
and Senate Highway Bills.'' (March 22, 2012) Serial Number 112-
130.
Hearing entitled ``Balancing Privacy and Innovation: Does
the President's Proposal Tip the Scale?'' (March 29, 2012)
Serial Number 112-135.
Hearing entitled ``Where the Jobs Are: Can American
Manufacturing Thrive Again?'' (April 19, 2012) Serial Number
112-139.
Hearing entitled ``Where the Jobs Are: Promoting Tourism to
America.'' (May 16, 2012) Serial Number 112-144.
Subcommittee on Communications and Technology
(Ratio 16-11)
GREG WALDEN, Oregon, Chairman
ANNA G. ESHOO, California, LEE TERRY, Nebraska,
Ranking Member Vice Chairman
EDWARD J. MARKEY, Massachusetts CLIFF STEARNS, Florida
MICHAEL F. DOYLE, Pennsylvania JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois
DORIS O. MATSUI, California MARY BONO MACK, California
JOHN BARROW, Georgia MIKE ROGERS, Michigan
DONNA M. CHRISTENSEN, MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
Virgin Islands BRIAN P. BILBRAY, California
EDOLPHUS TOWNS, New York CHARLES F. BASS, New Hampshire
FRANK PALLONE, Jr., New Jersey PHIL GINGREY, Georgia
BOBBY L. RUSH, Illinois STEVE SCALISE, Louisiana
DIANA DeGETTE, Colorado ROBERT E. LATTA, Ohio
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
(Ex Officio--non voting) ADAM KINZINGER, Illinois
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California JOE BARTON, Texas
(Ex Officio) FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: Interstate and foreign telecommunications including, but
not limited to, all telecommunication and information transmission by
broadcast, radio, wire, microwave, satellite, or other mode.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
Disapproving the Rule Submitted by the Federal Communications
Commission With Respect to Regulating the Internet and Broadband
Industry Practices
(H.J. RES. 37)
Disapproving the rule submitted by the Federal
Communications Commission with respect to regulating the
Internet and broadband industry practices.
Summary
H.J. Res. 37 expresses Congress's disapproval of the rule
adopted by the Federal Communications Commission on December
21, 2010, (Report and Order FCC 10-201) with respect to
regulating the Internet and broadband industry practices. The
bill prohibits the rule from having any force or effect.
Legislative History
On February 16, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications
and Technology held a hearing on ``Network Neutrality and
Internet Regulation: Warranted or More Economic Harm than
Good?'' After the hearing, Mr. Walden introduced H.J. Res. 37,
which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On February 28, 2011, H.J. Res. 37 was referred to the
Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, and on March 9,
2011, the Subcommittee held a hearing on the joint resolution.
On March 9, 2011, the Subcommittee met in open markup
session and forwarded H.J. Res. 37 to the full Committee,
without amendment, by a roll call vote of 15 yeas and 8 nays.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in a markup
session on March 14 and 15, 2011, and ordered H.J. Res. 37
favorably reported to the House, without amendment, by a roll
call vote of 30 yeas and 23 nays.
On April 1, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.J. Res. 37 to the House (H. Rept. 112-51), and the
bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 25).
On April 8, 2011, H.J. Res. 37 was considered in the House
pursuant to H. Res. 200, and the joint resolution was passed by
the House by a roll call vote of 240 yeas and 179 nays (Roll
Call No. 252).
On April 12, 2011, H.J. Res. 37 was received in the Senate
and read the first time. On April 13, 2011, the joint
resolution was read a second time and placed on the Senate
Legislative Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No. 34).
To Prohibit Federal Funding of the National Public Radio and the Use of
Federal Funds To Acquire Radio Content
(H.R. 1076)
To prohibit Federal funding of National Public Radio and
the use of Federal funds to acquire radio content.
Summary
H.R. 1076 prohibits Federal funding to National Public
Radio or any organization incorporated for broadcasting over
noncommercial educational broadcast stations, cooperating with
foreign broadcast systems, supporting noncommercial educational
radio broadcasting, paying dues to such organizations, or
acquiring public broadcast radio programs.
Legislative History
H.R. 1076 was introduced by Mr. Lamborn on March 15, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On March 15, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred the bill to the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology, and the Subcommittee was then discharged from
further consideration of H.R. 1076.
On March 17, 2011, H.R. 1076 passed the House by a roll
call vote of 228 yeas and 192 nays, 1 present (Roll Call No.
192).
On March 17, 2011, H.R. 1076 was received in the Senate,
read twice, and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science,
and Transportation.
To Return Unused or Reclaimed Funds Made Available for Broadband Awards
in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 to the Treasury
of the United States
(H.R. 1343)
To return unused or reclaimed funds made available for
broadband awards in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
of 2009 to the Treasury of the United States.
Summary
H.R. 1343 requires the Administrator of the Rural Utilities
Service and the Assistant Secretary of Commerce for
Communications and Information to terminate any awards made
under the Broadband Initiatives Program or the Broadband
Technology Opportunities Program pursuant to the American
Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 if the Administrator or
Assistant Secretary determines that cause exists, including
wasteful or fraudulent spending or an insufficient level of
performance. The Administrator and the Assistant Secretary must
deobligate funds upon terminating an award and to return the
funds to the U.S. Treasury, as well as report to Congress
explaining any determinations and actions taken. H.R. 1343 also
improves oversight of the grant programs.
Legislative History
On April 1, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce's
Subcommittee on Communications and Technology held a hearing on
a Committee Print to return to the U.S. Treasury unused or
reclaimed funds made available for broadband awards in the
American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, and to improve
oversight of the grant programs. On the same day, the
Subcommittee met in open markup session and forwarded the
Committee Print to the full Committee, without amendment, by a
voice vote.
H.R. 1343 was introduced by Mr. Bass on April 4, 2011, and
referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce and the
Committee on Agriculture. H.R. 1343 was substantially similar
to the Committee Print considered by the Subcommittee.
On April 4, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred the bill to the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology, and the Subcommittee was discharged from further
consideration of H.R. 1343.
On April 5, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce met
in open markup session and ordered H.R. 1343 favorably reported
to the House, as amended, by a voice vote.
On September 29, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 1343 to the House (H. Rept. 112-228, Part I), and
the bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 149).
On October 5, 2011, H.R. 1343 was considered in the House
under suspension of the Rules, and the bill was passed, as
amended, by a voice vote.
On October 6, 2011, H.R. 1343 was received in the Senate,
read twice, and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science,
and Transportation.
Federal Communications Commission Process Reform Act
of 2011
(H.R. 3309)
To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to provide for
greater transparency and efficiency in the procedures followed
by the Federal Communications Commission.
Summary
H.R. 3309 amends the Federal Communications Commission's
(FCC) rulemaking procedure by requiring a Notice of Inquiry
(NOI) in advance of a rulemaking, proposed rules to be issued
within three years of an NOI, minimum time frames for the
review of proposed rules and comment to the FCC, the
establishment of performance measures for large programs, and
cost benefit analysis for rules costing more than $100 million.
The bill also requires the FCC to establish procedures to
ensure the Commissioners have adequate time to review proposals
and know the options available, and so the public has an
opportunity to review and respond to ex partes and statistical
reports before the FCC relies on them.
Legislative History
On May 13 and June 22, 2011, the Subcommittee on
Communications and Technology held hearings on the need to
reform the processes of the Federal Communications Commission
(FCC). Those hearings sought feedback from the FCC Chairman and
Commissioners, as well as from members of industry, public
interest groups, and the academic community on draft
legislation.
On November 2, 2011, H.R. 3309 was introduced by Mr. Walden
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On November 4, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology met in open markup session and forwarded H.R. 3309
to the full Committee, as amended, by a roll call vote of 14
yeas and 9 nays.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in an open markup
session on March 5 and 6, 2012, and ordered H.R. 3309 favorably
reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call vote of 31
yeas and 16 nays.
On March 19, 2012, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 3309 to the House (H. Rept. 112-414), and the
bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 286).
On March 27, 2012, H.R. 3309 was considered in the House
pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 595, and was passed, as
amended, by a roll call vote of 247 yeas and 174 nays (Roll
Call No. 138).
On March 28, 2012, H.R. 3309 was received in the Senate,
read twice, and referred to the Committee on Commerce, Science,
and Transportation.
Federal Communications Commission Consolidated Reporting Act of 2011
(H.R. 3310)
To amend the Communications Act of 1934 to consolidate the
reporting obligations of the Federal Communications Commission
in order to improve congressional oversight and reduce
reporting burdens.
Summary
H.R. 3310 consolidates eight separate congressionally
mandated reports on the communications industry into a single
comprehensive report with a focus on intermodal competition,
deploying communications to un-served communities, eliminating
regulatory barriers, and empowering small businesses. This
report is synched to the two-year congressional cycle to
improve oversight and reduce costs. The Act also eliminates 12
additional, outdated reports from the Communications Act.
Legislative History
On May 13 and June 22, 2011, the Subcommittee on
Communications and Technology held hearings on the need to
reform the processes of the Federal Communications Commission
(FCC). Those hearings sought feedback from the FCC Chairman and
Commissioners, as well as from members of industry, public
interest groups, and the academic community on draft
legislation.
H.R. 3310 was introduced by Mr. Scalise on November 2,
2011, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On November 4, 2011, H.R. 3310 was referred to the
Subcommittee on Communications and Technology.
On November 9, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology met in open markup session and forwarded H.R. 3310
to the full Committee, as amended, by a voice vote.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in an open markup
session on March 5 and 6, 2012, and ordered H.R. 3310 favorably
reported to the House, as amended, by a voice vote.
On April 16, 2012, H.R. 3310, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce reported H.R. 3310 to the House (H. Rept. 112-443),
and the bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No.
310).
On May 30, 2012, H.R. 3310 was considered under suspension
of the Rules and passed the House, as amended, by a voice vote.
Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2011
(H.R. 3630)
To provide incentives for the creation of jobs, and for
other purposes.
Summary
Title IV of the bill, the ``Jumpstarting Opportunity With
Broadband Spectrum Act of 2011'' authorizes incentive auctions
of commercial spectrum, makes funds available for the
construction of an interoperable public safety network, and
creates a governance structure for construction and operation
of the network.
Legislative History
On July 15, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communication and
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Legislative Hearing to
Address Spectrum and Public Safety Issues.'' During that
hearing, the Subcommittee examined Committee Prints entitled
the ``Spectrum Innovation Act of 2011,'' and the ``Spectrum
Relocation Improvement Act of 2009.'' Based on the testimony
from this hearing, oversight hearings on spectrum issues, and
Member discussions, the Subcommittee released a Committee Print
entitled the ``Jumpstarting Opportunity with Broadband Spectrum
(JOBS) Act of 2011'' on November 29, 2011.
On December 1, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communication and
Technology met in open markup session and forwarded the
Committee Print to the full Committee, as amended, by a roll
call vote of 17 ayes and 6 nays.
On December 9, 2011, H.R. 3630 was introduced by Mr. Camp
and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, the Committee
on Energy and Commerce, the Committee on Financial Services,
the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure, the Committee on
Agriculture, the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform,
the Committee on House Administration, the Committee on Budget,
the Committee on Natural Resources, the Committee on Rules, and
the Committee on Intelligence.
Title IV of H.R. 3630, entitled ``Jumpstarting Opportunity
with Broadband Spectrum Act of 2011,'' includes provisions that
are substantially similar to the Committee Print considered by
the Subcommittee.
On December 13, 2011, H.R. 3630 was considered in the House
pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 491, and passed the House
by a roll call vote of 234 yeas and 193 nays (Roll Call No.
923).
On December 13, 2011, H.R. 3630 was read the first time,
and ordered placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under
Read the First Time. On December 14, 2011, the bill was
received in the Senate, read the second time, and placed on
Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No.
257).
On December 17, 2011, H.R. 3630 passed the Senate, with an
amendment, by unanimous consent.
On December 20, 2011, the House adopted a motion to
disagree to the Senate amendment and requested a conference
with the Senate by a roll call vote of 229 yeas and 193 nays
(Roll Call No. 946), and the Speaker appointed the following
conferees, Mr. Camp, Mr. Upton, Mr. Brady (TX), Mr. Walden, Mr.
Price (GA), Mr. Reed, Mrs. Ellmers, and Mrs. Hayworth.
On December 23, 2011 the Speaker appointed additional
conferees, including Mr. Levin, Mr. Becerra, Mr. Van Hollen,
Mrs. Schwartz, and Mr. Waxman.
On December 23, 2011, the Senate insisted upon its
amendments and agreed to the House's request to go to
conference, and on January 3, 2012, the Senate appointed
conferees, including Sen. Baucus, Sen. Reed, Sen. Cardin, Sen.
Casey, Sen. Kyl, Sen. Crapo, and Sen. Barrasso.
The conference met on February 2 and 7, 2012. The
conference report (H. Rpt. 112-399) was filed on February 16,
2012.
On February 17, 2012, the conference report was considered
in the House pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 554, and the
conference report was agreed to by a roll call vote of 293 yeas
and 132 nays (Roll Call No. 72).
The Senate agreed to the conference report by a roll call
vote of 60 yeas and 36 nays (Roll Call No. 22).
On February 22, 2012, H.R. 3639 was presented to and signed
by the President (Public Law 112-96).
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
Fairness Doctrine
After FCC Commissioner Robert McDowell discovered that the
Fairness Doctrine was still officially a regulation of the FCC,
even though the Commission had disclaimed its constitutionality
in the 1980s, the Committee took steps urging the FCC to remove
the Fairness Doctrine from the Code of Federal Regulations. In
a letter sent May 31, 2011, the Committee Chairman and the
Communications and Technology Subcommittee Chairman asked the
FCC Chairman to eliminate the regulation as well as the related
political-editorial and personal-attack rules. The FCC Chairman
responded on June 6, 2011, stating that he opposed the Fairness
Doctrine, that it was unenforceable without a vote of the
Commission to revive it, and that he anticipated that the FCC
would eliminate the regulation as part of its efforts at
regulatory reform. The Committee Chairman and the Subcommittee
Chairman followed up on June 8, 2011, requesting the FCC
Chairman's anticipated timeline for the removal of the
regulation and the FCC's plans for further eliminating outdated
rules and burdensome regulations. The FCC eliminated the
Doctrine Aug. 22, 2011.
ARRA Broadband Spending
On February 10, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications
and Technology held an oversight hearing on American Recovery
and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Broadband Spending. The purpose of
the hearing was to commence Congressional oversight of the $7
billion allocated for broadband in the ARRA, to analyze the
risks associated with the program, and to help facilitate
proper oversight by the administering agencies. The hearing
also began discussion of draft legislation that would return to
the Treasury funds from grants found to be wasteful,
fraudulent, or failing, as well as any funds that go unused or
are relinquished. Witnesses included representatives from the
Department of Commerce, the Department of Agriculture, the
Government Accountability Office, Eagle Communications, and
Merit Network, Inc.
Network Neutrality and Internet Regulation: Warranted or More Economic
Harm Than Good?
On February 16, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications
and Technology held a hearing to investigate the Network
Neutrality Rules adopted by the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) on December 21, 2010. The Subcommittee
received testimony from the chairman and commissioners of the
FCC.
On March 3, 2011, Chairman Upton, Chairman Walden, and Mr.
Terry sent a letter to FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski,
requesting the economic and market analysis included in the
Commission's order to impose controversial Internet rules. The
letter also requested information that would demonstrate that
the FCC's network neutrality rules would not harm the American
economy or the ability of Internet providers to innovate. On
March 4, 2011, Chairman Upton, Chairman Walden, and Mr. Terry
sent letters to CTIA--The Wireless Association and the National
Cable & Telecommunications Association seeking information
regarding the potential impact of the network neutrality rules
on investment and economic activity.
On March 9, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a legislative hearing regarding a resolution
pursuant to the Congressional Review Act regarding the FCC's
Net Neutrality rules. The Subcommittee received testimony from
AT&T, Free Press, and other stakeholders.
Using Spectrum to Advance Public Safety, Promote Broadband, Create
Jobs, and Reduce the Deficit
On April 12, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing to examine spectrum policy and to
investigate how it can be used to bring interoperable broadband
communications to public safety, advance wireless broadband,
and reduce the deficit. The Subcommittee received testimony
from Senator Slade Gorton, formerly of the 9/11 Commission; the
New York Police Department; the Brattle Group; U.S. Cellular;
WGAL-TV; the Federal Communications Commission; and Intel Corp.
FCC Process Reform
On May 13, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing on Federal Communications Commission
(FCC) Process Reform. The purpose of the hearing was to examine
possible reforms to FCC procedure to ensure consistency in the
decision making process at the FCC. The Subcommittee received
testimony from the Chairman and Commissioners.
Chairman Walden and Chairman Stearns followed the hearing
with a letter sent on June 3, 2011, seeking more detailed data
about the Commission's activities. Among other things, the
letter sought information about how many petitions, complaints,
and applications are pending at the FCC, the FCC's use of
internal deadlines to manage its docket, and the conditions the
FCC has imposed on recent transactions.
Creating an Interoperable Public Safety Network
On May 25, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Creating an Interoperable
Public Safety Network.'' The hearing was held to investigate
why, almost 10 years after the events of September 11, 2001,
and despite Congressional allocation of billions of dollars and
approximately 100 MHz of spectrum for public safety use, first
responders still do not have ubiquitous interoperable voice
communications, and few have interoperable broadband. The
Subcommittee received testimony from first responder groups,
communications companies, and other stakeholders.
Promoting Broadband, Jobs and Economic Growth Through Commercial
Spectrum Auctions
On June 1, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Promoting Broadband, Jobs
and Economic Growth Through Commercial Spectrum Auctions.'' The
Subcommittee held the hearing to probe how best to meet the
spectrum needs of Americans. The Subcommittee received
testimony from CTIA--The Wireless Association, an economist
from Duke University, Qualcomm Inc., Public Knowledge, Schurz
Communications, and Titan Broadcast Management.
Reforming FCC Process
On June 22, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a legislative hearing on the Committee Print
entitled the ``Federal Communications Commission Process Reform
Act.'' The Subcommittee received testimony from representatives
of Broadband for America, Frontier Communications, Consumer
Federation of America, Free State Foundation, the National
Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners, and a
professor from the Washington University School of Law.
Federal Government Spectrum Use
On July 6, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Federal Government
Spectrum Use.'' The purpose of the hearing was to evaluate the
impact of spectrum policy on interoperable broadband
communications for public safety, in advancing wireless
broadband, in reducing the deficit, and in creating jobs. The
Subcommittee received testimony from the Assistant Secretary
for Communications and Information at the Department of
Commerce and the Administrator of the National
Telecommunication and Information.
Internet Privacy: The Views of the FTC, The FCC, and NTIA
On July 14, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology and the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and
Trade held a joint hearing entitled ``Internet Privacy: The
Views of the FTC, the FCC, and NTIA.'' The hearing examined the
views of several Federal agencies regarding the regulation of
Internet privacy. The Subcommittees received testimony from the
Honorable Edith Ramirez, Chairman of the Commissioner of the
Federal Trade Commission, the Honorable Julius Genachowski,
Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission, and the
Honorable Lawrence Strickling, the Assistant Secretary for
Communications and Information and the Administrator of the
National Telecommunication and Information Administration.
Legislative Hearing To Address Spectrum and Public
Safety Issues
On July 15, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Legislative Hearing to
Address Spectrum and Public Safety Issues.'' The purpose of the
hearing was to discuss how spectrum policy can help bring
interoperable broadband communications to public safety
officials, advance wireless broadband service, reduce the
deficit, and create jobs. The Subcommittee received testimony
from the National Association of Broadcasters, CTIA-The
Wireless Association, the San Jose Police Department, an
economics professor from the University of Maryland, and the
New America Foundation.
H.R. 3035, Mobile Informational Call Act of 2011
On November 4, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing on H.R. 3035, the ``Mobile
Informational Call Act of 2011,'' introduced by the Honorable
Lee Terry and the Honorable Edolphus Towns. The aim of H.R.
3035 is to permit informational calls using automatic dialers
to mobile devices and further amend the Telephone Consumer
Protection Act in light of developments in the communications
marketplace over the last twenty years. The Subcommittee
received testimony from the Honorable Greg Zoeller, Attorney
General of Indiana, HOPE NOW, Cargo Airline Association, CTIA,
and the National Association of Consumer Advocates.
ICANN's Top-Level Domain Name Program
On December 14, 2011, the Subcommittee on Communications
and Technology held a hearing entitled ``ICANN's Top-Level
Domain Name Program.'' The hearing examined the Internet
Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers' proposed expansion
of the number of generic top-level domain names. The
Subcommittee received testimony from representatives of the
National Telecommunications and Information Administration, the
Coalition Against Domain Name Abuse, Employ Media, the Council
of Better Business Bureaus, the Association of National
Advertisers, and ICANN.
Cybersecurity: Threats to Communications Networks and Private-Sector
Responses
On February 8, 2012, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Cybersecurity: Threats to
Communications Networks and Private-Sector Responses.'' The
hearing examined the threats to America's communications
networks, what the private sector is doing to address those
threats, what the private sector could be doing better, and
what role the Federal government should play. The subcommittee
received testimony from Internet Security Alliance, Entrust,
Juniper Networks, Center for Strategic and International
Studies, and McAfee Inc.
The Budget and Spending of the Federal Communications Commission
On February 16, 2012, the Subcommittee on Communications
and Technology held a hearing entitled ``The Budget and
Spending of the Federal Communications Commission.'' The
Subcommittee received testimony from the chairman of the
Federal Communications Commission, the inspector general of the
Federal Communications Commission, and the chief executive
officer of Universal Service Administrative Company.
Cybersecurity and the Pivotal Role of Communications Networks
On March 7, 2012, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Cybersecurity and the
Pivotal Role of Communications Networks.'' The hearing
continued the examination of cybersecurity and our
communications infrastructure with a focus on what internet
service providers are doing to address cybersecurity. The
Subcommittee received testimony from AT&T Services, Inc.,
CenturyLink, Comcast Corporation, and MetroPCS Communications
Inc.
Cybersecurity: Threats to Communications Networks and Public-Sector
Responses
On March 28, 2012, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Cybersecurity: Threats to
Communications Networks and Public-Sector Responses.'' The
hearing examined threats to America's communications networks,
what the public sector is doing to address those threats, how
it is working with the private sector, and what role the
Federal government should play in securing communications
networks. The Subcommittee received testimony from witnesses
representing the Federal Communications Commission, the
National Telecommunications and Information Administration, the
Department of Homeland Security, Carnegie Mellon's Computer
Emergency Readiness Team, and Sandia Laboratories.
Broadband Loans and Grants
On May 16, 2012, the Subcommittee on Communications and
Technology held a hearing entitled ``Broadband Loans and
Grants.'' The hearing examined the $7.2 billion in broadband
grants and loans that was allocated by the American Recovery
and Reinvestment Act of 2009. The Subcommittee received
testimony from the Assistant Secretary for Communications and
Information at the Department of Commerce, the Administrator of
the Rural Utility Service, the Inspector General of the U.S.
Department of Commerce, and the Deputy Inspector General at the
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
HEARINGS HELD
Hearing entitled ``ARRA Broadband Spending.'' (February 10,
2011) Serial Number 112-5.
Hearing entitled ``Network Neutrality and Internet
Regulation: Warranted or More Economic Harm than Good?''
(February 16, 2011) Serial Number 112-8.
Hearing entitled ``H.J. Res 37, Disapproving the rule
submitted by the Federal Communications Commission with respect
to regulating the Internet and broadband industry.'' (March 9,
2011) Serial Number 112-18.
Hearing entitled ``H.R. ___, a Bill to Clarify NTIA and RUS
Authority to Return Reclaimed Stimulus Funds to the U.S.
Treasury.'' (April 1, 2011) Serial Number 112-30.
Hearing entitled ``Using Spectrum to Advance Public Safety,
Promote Broadband, Create Jobs, and Reduce the Deficit.''
(April 12, 2011) Serial Number 112-36.
Hearing entitled ``FCC Process Reform.'' (May 13, 2011)
Serial Number 112-48.
Hearing entitled ``Creating an Interoperable Public Safety
Network.'' (May 25, 2011) Serial Number 112-51.
Hearing entitled ``Promoting Broadband, Jobs and Economic
Growth Through Commercial Spectrum Auctions.'' (June 1, 2011)
Serial Number 112-53.
Hearing entitled ``Reforming FCC Process.'' (June 22, 2011)
Serial Number 112-66.
Hearing entitled ``Federal Government Spectrum Use.'' (July
6, 2011) Serial Number 112-69.
Hearing entitled ``Internet Privacy: The Views of the FTC,
the FCC, and NTIA.'' (July 14, 2011) Serial Number 112-75.
Hearing entitled ``Legislative Hearing to Address Spectrum
and Public Safety Issues.'' (July 15, 2011) Serial Number 112-
76.
Hearing entitled ``H.R. 3035, The `Mobile Informational
Call Act of 2011.''' (November 4, 2011) Serial Number 112-103.
Hearing entitled ``ICANN's Top-Level Domain Name Program.''
(December 14, 2011) Serial Number 112-107.
Hearing entitled ``Cybersecurity: Threats to Communications
Networks and Private-Sector Responses.'' (February 8, 2012)
Serial Number 112-112.
Hearing entitled ``The Budget and Spending of the Federal
Communications Commission.'' (February 16, 2012) Serial Number
112-117.
Hearing entitled ``Cybersecurity: The Pivotal Role of
Communications Networks.'' (March 7, 2012) Serial Number 112-
123.
Hearing entitled ``Cybersecurity: Threats to Communications
Networks and Public-Sector Responses.'' (March 28, 2012) Serial
Number 112-134.
Hearing entitled ``Broadband Loans and Grants.'' (May 16,
2012) Serial Number 112-143.
Hearing entitled ``International Proposals to Regulate the
Internet.'' (May 31, 2012) Serial Number 112-145.
Subcommittee on Energy and Power
(Ratio 16-11)
ED WHITFIELD, Kentucky, Chairman
BOBBY L. RUSH, Illinois, JOHN SULLIVAN, Oklahoma,
Ranking Member Vice Chairman
KATHY CASTOR, Florida JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois
JOHN P. SARBANES, Maryland GREG WALDEN, Oregon
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan LEE TERRY, Nebraska
EDWARD J. MARKEY, Massachusetts MICHAEL C. BURGESS, Texas
ELIOT L. ENGEL, New York BRIAN P. BILBRAY, California
GENE GREEN, Texas STEVE SCALISE, Louisiana
LOIS CAPPS, California CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS, Washington
MICHAEL F. DOYLE, Pennsylvania PETE OLSON, Texas
CHARLES A. GONZALEZ, Texas DAVID B. McKINLEY, West Virginia
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California CORY GARDNER, Colorado
(Ex Officio) MIKE POMPEO, Kansas
H. MORGAN GRIFFITH, Virginia
JOE BARTON, Texas
FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: National energy policy generally; Fossil energy,
renewable energy resources and synthetic fuels, energy conservation,
energy information; Energy regulation and utilization; Utility issues
and regulation of nuclear facilities; Interstate energy compacts;
Nuclear energy; The Clean Air Act and air emissions; and, All laws,
programs, and government activities affecting such matters.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
Energy Tax Prevention Act of 2011
(H.R. 910)
To amend the Clean Air Act to prohibit the Administrator of
the Environmental Protection Agency from promulgating any
regulation concerning, taking action relating to, or taking
into consideration the emission of a greenhouse gas to address
climate change, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 910 prohibits the Administrator of the Environmental
Protection Agency from using the Clean Air Act to promulgate
any regulation concerning, take action relating to, or take
into consideration the emission of a greenhouse gas (GHG) to
address climate change. To this end, certain prior Clean Air
Act greenhouse gas agency actions are repealed, including
without limitation, the Agency's actions with respect to
``Endangerment and Cause or Contribute Findings for Greenhouse
Gases'' Under Section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act'' and the
rulemaking entitled ``Mandatory Reporting of Greenhouse
Gases.'' Notwithstanding the foregoing, reporting requirements
as a result of implementation and enforcement of section 821 of
Public Law 101-549 (commonly referred to as the Clean Air Act
Amendments of 1990) would remain in effect.
Legislative History
On February 9, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
held a hearing on a Committee Print entitled the ``Energy Tax
Prevention Act of 2011.'' The Subcommittee held another hearing
on March 1, 2011, entitled ``EPA's Greenhouse Gas Regulations
and Their Effect on American Jobs.''
H.R. 910 was introduced by Mr. Upton on March 3, 2011, and
referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On March 8, 2011, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee
on Energy and Power, and the Subcommittee held another
legislative hearing on the bill entitled ``Climate Science and
EPA's Greenhouse Gas Regulations.''
The Subcommittee on Energy and Power met in open markup
session on March 10, 2011, and H.R. 910 was forwarded to the
full Committee, without amendment, by a voice vote.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in open markup
session on March 14 and 15, 2011, and ordered H.R. 910
favorably reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call
vote of 34 yeas and 19 nays.
On April 1, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 910 to the House (H. Rept. 112-50), and the bill
was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 24).
On May 6 and 7, 2011, H.R. 910 was considered in the House
pursuant to H. Res. 203, and on May 7, 2011, the bill was
passed, as amended, by a roll call vote of 255 yeas and 172
nays (Roll Call No. 249).
On April 8, 2011, H.R. 910 was received in the Senate and
referred to the Committee on Environment and Public Works.
Farm Dust Regulation and Prevention Act of 2011
(H.R. 1633)
To establish a temporary prohibition against revising any
national ambient air quality standard applicable to coarse
particulate matter, to limit Federal regulation of nuisance
dust in areas in which such dust is regulated under State,
tribal, or local law, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 1633 prohibits the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) from proposing, finalizing, implementing, or enforcing
any regulation revising the National Ambient Air Quality
Standards applicable to coarse particulate matter for one year
from the date of enactment, and limits Federal regulation of a
subset of particulate matter defined as ``nuisance dust'' when
it is already addressed by state or local regulations unless
the Administrator finds that: (1) nuisance dust causes
substantial adverse public health and welfare effects at
ambient concentrations and (2) the benefits of applying federal
Clean Air Act standards to nuisance dust outweigh the costs.
Legislative History
H.R. 1633 was introduced by Ms. Noem on April 15, 2011, and
referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On April 25, 2011, the bill was referred to the
Subcommittee on Energy and Power, and on October 25, 2011, the
Subcommittee held a hearing on the bill.
On November 3, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
met in an open markup session and forwarded H.R. 1633, as
amended, to the full Committee.
On November 29, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
met in an open markup session and ordered H.R. 1633 reported to
the House, as amended, by a roll call vote of 33 yeas and 16
nays.
On December 6, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 1633 to the House (H. Rept. 112-316), and the
bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 215).
On December 8, 2011, H.R. 1633 was considered in the House
pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 487, and the bill was
passed by a roll call vote of 268 yeas and 150 nays (Roll Call
No. 912).
On December 12, 2011, H.R. 1633 was received in the Senate
and read once and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under
Read the First Time. On December 13, 2011, H.R. 1633 was read
the second time and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under
General Orders (Calendar No. 256).
Transparency in Regulatory Analysis of Impacts on the Nation Act of
2011
(H.R. 1705)
To require analyses of the cumulative and incremental
impacts of certain rules and actions of the Environmental
Protection Agency, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 1705 establishes an interagency committee to conduct a
cumulative analysis of certain EPA regulations that impact
energy and manufacturing in the United States and to report the
findings to Congress.
Legislative History
H.R. 1705 was introduced by Mr. Sullivan on May 4, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce and, in
addition, to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure.
On May 6, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred H.R. 1705 to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power. The
Subcommittee met in open markup session on May 24, 2011, and
H.R. 1705 was forwarded to the full Committee, as amended, by a
voice vote.
For further activity, see H.R. 2401.
North American-Made Energy Security Act
(H.R. 1938)
To direct the President to expedite the consideration and
approval of the construction and operation of the Keystone XL
oil pipeline, and for other purposes
Summary
H.R. 1938 directs the President of the United States to
coordinate with each Federal agency responsible for
coordinating or considering an aspect of the President's
National Interest Determination and Presidential Permit
decision regarding construction and operation of the Keystone
XL pipeline to ensure that all necessary actions are taken on
an expedited schedule. The bill also directs the President,
within 30 days after the final environmental impact statement,
but not later than November 1, 2011, to issue a final order
granting or denying the Presidential Permit for the Keystone XL
pipeline.
Legislative History
Mr. Terry introduced H.R. 1938 on May 23, 2011, and
referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
and in addition to the Committees on Energy and Commerce and
the Committee on Natural Resources, for a period to be
subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for
consideration of such provisions as fall within the
jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
On May 24, 2011, H.R. 1938 was referred to Subcommittee on
Energy and Power. On June 15, 2011, the Subcommittee met in
open markup session, and H.R. 1938 was forwarded to the full
Committee by a voice vote.
On June 23, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce met
in open markup session, and ordered H.R. 1938 favorably
reported to the House by a roll call vote of 33 yeas and 13
nays.
On July 8, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 1938 to the House (H. Rept. 112-140, Part I).
On July 26, 2011, H.R. 1938 was considered in the House
pursuant to H. Res. 370 and was passed by a roll call vote of
279 years, 147 nays, and 1 present (Roll No. 650).
On July 27, 2011, H.R. 1938 was received in the Senate,
read the first time, and placed on the Senate Legislative
Calendar under Read the First Time. On July 28, 2011, the bill
was read the second time and placed on the Senate Legislative
Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No. 116).
Provisions similar to H.R. 1938 were included in H.R. 3630,
the ``Temporary Payroll Tax Cut Continuation Act of 2011.'' The
legislative history of H.R. 3630 is discussed in the sections
on the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology and the
Subcommittee on Health.
Jobs and Energy Permitting Act of 2011
(H.R. 2021)
To amend the Clean Air Act regarding air pollution from
Outer Continental Shelf activities.
Summary
H.R. 2021, the Jobs and Energy Permitting Act of 2011
(``JEPA''), would amend section 328 of the Clean Air Act (CAA)
to clarify when a drilling operation becomes an Outer
Continental Shelf source (``OCS Source''), which vessels can be
regulated as part of the OCS source, and where to measure the
air quality impacts of the OCS source. H.R. 2021 also would
make several changes to the administrative and judicial review
process for permits issued under section 328.
Legislative History
On April 13, 2011 and May 13, 2011, the Subcommittee on
Energy and Power held hearings on a Committee Print entitled
the ``Jobs and Energy Permitting Act of 2011.'' The
Subcommittee on Energy and Power met in open markup session on
May 24, 2011, and the Committee Print was forwarded to the full
Committee, without amendment, by a voice vote.
On May 26, 2011, H.R. 2021 was introduced by Mr. Gardner
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
The full Committee met in open markup session on June 1 and
2, 2011, and ordered H.R. 2021 favorably reported to the House,
without amendment, by a roll call vote of 34 yeas and 14 nays.
On June 16, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 2021 to the House (H. Rept. 112-108), and the
bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 62).
On June 22, 2011, H.R. 2021 was considered in the House
pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 316, and the bill was
passed by a roll call vote of 253 yeas and 166 nays (Roll Call
No. 477).
On June 23, 2011, H.R. 2021 was received in the Senate,
read the first time, and placed on the Senate Legislative
Calendar. On June 27, 2011, the bill was read the second time
and placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under General
Orders (Calendar No. 86).
Energy and Revenue Enrichment Act of 2011
(H.R. 2054)
To provide for the reenrichment of certain depleted uranium
owned by the Department of Energy, and for the sale of barter
of the resulting reenriched uranium, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 2054 directs the Secretary of the Department of Energy
(DOE) to contract with a qualified operator for a 24-month
pilot program for the re-enrichment of depleted uranium. The
Secretary is authorized to sell the re-enriched uranium
generated under the contract. The proceeds from the sale are
available to carry out the pilot program, and the remaining
funds are deposited into the Uranium Decontamination and
Decommissioning Fund. The Secretary retains title to the
depleted uranium generated by the pilot program, and is
authorized to assume or transfer title to additional depleted
uranium to satisfy the terms of the pilot program contract.
During the 2-year pilot program, and the 2 years
thereafter, the Secretary is authorized to sell up to 15
percent of the U.S.'s nuclear fuel requirements. After that 4-
year period, the Secretary may sell up to only 10 percent of
the U.S.'s nuclear fuel requirements in any year, unless the
Secretary determines there will be no impact on the uranium
markets.
Legislative History
H.R. 2054 was introduced by Mr. Whitfield on May 26, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On June 3, 2011, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee
on Energy and Power. The Subcommittee met in open markup
session on July 27, 2011, and H.R. 2054 was forwarded to the
full Committee, as amended, by a voice vote.
EPA Regulatory Relief Act of 2011
(H.R. 2250)
To Provide additional time for the Administrator of the
Environmental protection Agency to issue achievable standards
for industrial, commercial, and institutional boilers, process
heaters, and incinerators, and for other purposes.
Summary
The bill nullifies four recently published, interrelated
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rules setting MACT and
other performance standards for industrial, commercial, and
institutional boilers and process heaters, and commercial and
industrial solid waste incineration units and then directs the
Administrator of the EPA to promulgate new rules 15 months
after the date of enactment pursuant to regulatory standards
that can be met under actual operating conditions and that
impose the least burdensome regulatory alternatives.
Legislative History
H.R. 2250 was introduced on June 21, 2011, by Mr. Griffith
and Mr. Butterfield, and referred to the Committee on Energy
and Commerce.
On June 22, 2011, H.R. 2250 was referred to the
Subcommittee on Energy and Power. On September 8, 2011, the
Subcommittee on Energy and Power held a legislative hearing on
H.R. 2250 entitled ``Legislative Hearing on H.R. 2250, the EPA
Regulatory Relief Act of 2011 and H.R. 2681, the Cement Sector
Regulatory Relief Act of 2011.''
On September 13, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
met in open markup session and forwarded the bill to the full
Committee, without amendment, by a voice vote.
On September 20 and 21, 2011, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in open markup session and ordered H.R. 2250
favorably reported to the House, as amended (H. Rept. 112-225),
by a roll call vote of 36 yeas and 14 nays, and the bill was
placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 146).
On October 3, 2011, H.R. 2250 was considered in the House
pursuant to H. Res. 419, and the bill was passed by a roll call
vote of 275 yeas and 142 nays (Roll Call No. 791).
On October 17, 2011, H.R. 2250 was received in the Senate
and read once and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under
Read the First Time. On October 18, 2011, H.R. 2250 was read
the second time and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under
General Orders (Calendar No. 201).
Transparency in Regulatory Analysis of Impacts on the Nation Act of
2011
(H.R. 2401)
To require analyses of the cumulative and incremental
impacts of certain rules and actions of the Environmental
Protection Agency, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 2401 establishes an interagency committee, chaired by
the Secretary of Commerce, to analyze and report on the
cumulative and incremental impacts of certain rules and actions
of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and to report the
findings to Congress. The bill nullifies the rule entitled
``Federal Implementation Plans: Interstate Transport of Fine
Particulate Matter and Ozone and Correction of SIP approvals''
and then directs the Administrator of EPA to promulgate new
rules under section 110(a)(2)(D)(i)(I) or section 126 of the
Clean Air Act relating to national ambient air quality
standards for ozone or particulate matter. The bill also
nullifies the rule entitled ``National Emission Standards for
Hazardous Air Pollutants From Coal- and Oil-Fired Electric
Utility Steam Generating Units and Standards of Performance for
Fossil-Fuel-Fired Electric Utility, Industrial-Commercial-
Institutional; and Small Industrial-Commercial-Institutional
Steam Generating Units,'' and directs the Administrator to
promulgate new rules under section 112 of the Clean Air Act
with respect to each hazardous air pollutant for which the
Administrator finds such regulations are appropriate and
necessary pursuant to (n)(1)(A) of such section. Lastly, in
establishing any national primary or secondary ambient air
quality standard under section 109 of the Clean Air Act, the
Administrator is required to consider cost and feasibility.
Legislative History
H.R. 2401 was introduced by Mr. Sullivan on June 24, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On June 24, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred H.R. 2401 to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.
The Subcommittee on Energy and Power met in an open markup
session on July 8, 2011, and forwarded H.R. 2401 to the full
Committee, without amendment, by a voice vote.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in an open markup
session on July 11, 12, and 13, 2011, and ordered H.R. 2401
reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call vote of 33
yeas and 13 nays.
On September 15, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 2401, as amended, to the House (H. Rept. 112-
208), and the bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar
No. 136).
On September 22 and 23, 2011, H.R. 2401 was considered in
the House pursuant to H. Res. 406, and on September 23, 2011,
the bill was passed by a roll call vote of 249 yeas and 169
nays (Roll Call No. 741).
On September 26, 2011, H.R. 2401 was received in the
Senate, read twice, and referred to the Committee on
Environment and Public Works.
Cement Sector Regulatory Relief Act of 2011
(H.R. 2681)
To provide additional time for the Administrator of the
Environmental Protection Agency to issue achievable standards
for cement manufacturing facilities, and for other purposes.
Summary
The legislation requires the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) to issue new rules 15 months after the date of
enactment under the Clean Air Act (CAA) governing emissions of
hazardous air pollutants from cement manufacturing plants and
nullifies the existing rule entitled ``National Emissions
Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants from the Portland Cement
Manufacturing Industry and Standards of Performance for
Portland Cement Plants,'' and nullifies the following two rules
to the extent they apply to the Portland Cement Manufacturing
Industry and Portland Cement plants entitled: ``Standards of
Performance for New Stationary Sources and Emission Guidelines
for Existing Sources: Commercial and Industrial Solid Waste
Incineration Units,'' and ``Identification of Non-Hazardous
Secondary Materials that are Solid Waste.'' The new rules are
required to use regulatory standards that can be met under
actual operating conditions and that impose the least
burdensome regulatory alternatives.
Legislative History
On July 28, 2011, H.R. 2681 was introduced to the House by
Mr. Sullivan and referred to the Committee on Energy and
Commerce.
On August 5, 2011, the bill was referred to the
Subcommittee on Energy and Power.
The Subcommittee on Energy and Power met in open markup
session on September 13, 2011, and forwarded H.R. 2681 to the
full Committee, without amendment, by a voice vote.
On September 20 and 21, 2011, the full Committee met in
open markup session and ordered H.R. 2681 reported to the
House, as amended, by a roll call vote of 33 yeas and 12 nays.
On September 26, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 2681 to the House (H. Rept. 112-227), and the
bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 148).
On October 5 and 6, 2011, H.R. 2681 was considered in the
House pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 419, and on October
6, 2011, the bill was passed, as amended, by a roll call vote
of 262 yeas and 161 nays (Roll Call No. 764).
On October 11, 2011, the bill was received in the Senate,
read the first time, and placed on the Senate Legislative
Calendar under Read the First Time. On October 12, 2011, the
bill was read the second time and placed on the Senate
Legislative Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No. 192).
Pipeline Infrastructure and Community Protection Act of 2011
(H.R. 2937, H.R. 2845)
To amend title 49, United States Code, to provide for
enhanced safety and environmental protection in pipeline
transportation, to provide for enhanced reliability in the
transportation of the Nation's energy products by pipeline, and
for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 2937 provides for enhanced safety and environmental
protection in pipeline transportation by directing the
Secretary of Transportation to enforce numerous requirements
for pipeline operators and perform several studies on pipeline
safety standards and technology. Additionally, the bill
reauthorizes pipeline safety programs administered by the
Department of Transportation through fiscal year 2014.
Legislative History
The Subcommittee on Energy and Power held two days of
hearings on pipeline safety in the 112th Congress as part of
the ``American Energy Initiative'' series. On June 16, 2011,
Members received testimony on the current status of pipeline
safety, and on July 15 and July 21 2011, the Subcommittee held
a hearing on a Committee Print that became H.R. 2937.
H.R. 2937 was introduced by Mr. Upton on September 15,
2011, and referred to the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure and the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On September 20, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred H.R. 2937 to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.
On September 20 and 21, 2011, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in an open markup session and ordered H.R. 2937
favorably reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call
vote of 51 yeas and 0 nays.
On November 16, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 2937 to the House, as amended (H. Rept. 112-287,
Part I).
On September 7, 2011, H.R. 2845, the ``Pipeline Safety,
Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act of 2011,'' was
introduced by Mr. Shuster and referred to the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure and the Committee on Energy
and Commerce.
On September 8, 2011, the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure met in open markup session and ordered H.R. 2845
favorably reported to the House, as amended, by a voice vote.
On December 1, 2011, the Committee on Transportation and
Infrastructure reported H.R. 2845 to the House, as amended (H.
Rept. 112-297, Part I).
On December 12, 2011, H.R. 2845, which included provisions
similar to H.R. 2937, was considered under suspension of the
Rules and passed the House by a voice vote.
On December 13, 2011, H.R. 2845 was received in the Senate,
read twice, considered, read the third time, and passed without
amendment by unanimous consent.
On December 23, 2011, H.R. 2845 was presented to the
President, and on January 3, 2012, H.R. 2845 was signed into
law (Public Law 112-90).
The North American Energy Access Act
(H.R. 3548)
To facilitate United States access to North American oil
resources, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 3548 directs the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
(FERC) to issue a permit for the construction, operation, and
maintenance of the Keystone XL Pipeline Project within 30 days
of receiving an application, or the permit will be deemed to
have been issued.
An applicant may make substantial modifications to the
pipeline only with the approval of FERC, and FERC is directed
to expedite consideration of such a modification.
FERC also is directed to enter into a memorandum of
understanding (MOU) with the State of Nebraska for a review
under National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 of any
modification to the pipeline route in Nebraska, and to approve
modifications within 30 days of receiving approval of the
proposed modification from the Governor of Nebraska, or the
modification will be deemed approved.
Legislative History
H.R. 3548 was introduced by Mr. Terry on December 2, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in
addition to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
and the Committee on Natural Resources.
On December 9, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred H.R. 3548 to the Subcommittee on Energy and Power.
On January 25, 2012, and February 3, 2012, the Subcommittee
on Energy and Power held a legislative hearing entitled,
``American Jobs Now: A Legislative Hearing on H.R. 3548, the
North American Energy Access Act.''
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in an open markup
session on February 6 and 7, 2012, and ordered H.R. 3548
favorably reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call
vote of 33 yeas and 20 nays.
The provisions of H.R. 3548 are substantially similar to
Title II of H.R. 4348, the ``Surface Transportation Extension
Act of 2012, Part II.''
H.R. 4348 was introduced by Mr. Mica on April 16, 2012, and
referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, the
Committee on Natural Resources, the Committee on Science,
Space, and Technology, and the Committee on Energy and
Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the
Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as
fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
On April 18, 2012, H.R. 4348 was considered in the House
pursuant to the provisions of H.Res. 619, and the bill was
passed, as amended, by a roll call vote of 293 yeas and 127
nays (Roll Call No. 170).
On April 18, 2012, H.R. 4348 was received in the Senate,
and on April 24, 2012, the Senate passed the bill, as amended,
by unanimous consent. The Senate insisted upon its amendment,
asked for a conference, appointed the following conferees, Sen.
Boxer, Sen. Baucus, Sen. Rockefeller, Sen. Durbin, Sen. Johnson
(SD), Sen. Schumer, Sen. Nelson (FL), Sen. Menendez, Sen.
Inhofe, Sen. Vitter, Sen. Hatch, Sen. Shelby, Sen. Hutchison,
and Sen. Hoeven, and sent a message on Senate action to the
House.
On April 25, 2012, the House disagreed to the Senate
amendment, agreed to the Senate's request to go to conference
by unanimous consent, and the Speaker appointed conferees. From
the Committee on Energy and Commerce, the Speaker appointed Mr.
Upton, Mr. Whitfield, and Mr. Waxman for consideration of
section 142 and Title II and Title V of the House bill, and
sections 1113, 1201, 1202, subtitles B, C, D, and E of Title I
of Division C, sections 32701-32705, 32710, 32713, 40101, and
40301 of the Senate amendment, and modifications committed to
conference.
Gasoline Regulations Act of 2012
(H.R. 4471)
To require analyses of the cumulative impacts of certain
rules and actions of the Environmental Protection Agency that
impact gasoline, diesel fuel, and natural gas prices, jobs, and
the economy, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 4471 establishes an interagency committee chaired by
the Secretary of Energy to conduct a cumulative analysis of
certain Environmental Protection Agency regulations relating to
gasoline and diesel fuel in the United States and to report the
findings to Congress. The bill also defers for at least 6
months after submission of the final report developed by the
interagency committee the following new regulations: (i) Tier 3
motor vehicle emissions and fuel standards; (ii) new or revised
performance or emissions standards applicable to petroleum
refineries; and (iii) new ozone standards. In addition, in
establishing any national primary or secondary ambient air
quality standard under section 109 of the Clean Air Act, the
Administrator is required to consider cost and feasibility.
Legislative History
On March 28, 2012, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
held a hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative''
which focused on draft legislation, including the Committee
Print entitled the ``Gasoline Regulations Act of 2012.''
The Subcommittee on Energy and Power met in an open markup
session on April 16, 2012, and forwarded the Committee Print,
as amended, to the full Committee.
H.R. 4471 was introduced by Mr. Whitfield on April 23,
2012, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
H.R. 4471 was substantially similar to the Committee Print
considered by the Subcommittee.
On May 16 and 17, 2012, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in an open markup session and ordered H.R. 4471
favorably reported to the House, without amendment, by a roll
call vote of 28 yeas and 13 nays.
On June 6, 2012, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 4471 to the House (H. Rept. 112-519), and the
bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 366).
Strategic Energy Production Act of 2012
(H.R. 4480)
To provide for the development of a plan to increase oil
and gas exploration, development, and production under oil and
gas leases of Federal lands under the jurisdiction of the
Secretary of Agriculture, the Secretary of Energy, the
Secretary of the Interior, and the Secretary of Defense in
response to a drawdown of petroleum reserves from the Strategic
Petroleum Reserve.
Summary
H.R. 4480 directs the Secretary of Energy (in consultation
with the Secretaries of Agriculture, Interior, and Defense),
upon the first drawdown from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve,
to establish a plan to increase the percentage of Federal lands
and waters leased for oil and gas development.
Legislative History
On March 28, 2012, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
held a hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative''
which focused on draft legislation, including the Committee
Print entitled the ``Strategic Energy Production Act of 2012.''
The Subcommittee on Energy and Power met in an open markup
session on April 16, 2012, and forwarded the Committee Print,
as amended, to the full Committee.
H.R. 4480 was introduced by Mr. Gardner on April 24, 2012,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, the
Committee on Natural Resources, the Committee on Agriculture,
and the Committee on Armed Services. On April 27, 2012, the
Committee on Energy and Commerce referred H.R. 4480 to the
Subcommittee on Energy and Power. H.R. 4480 was substantially
similar to the Committee Print considered by the Subcommittee.
On May 16 and 17, 2012, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in an open markup session and ordered H.R. 4480
favorably reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call
vote of 31 yeas and 16 nays.
On June 8, 2012, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 4480 to the House (H. Rept. 112-520, Part I), and
the bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 367).
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
The Effects of Middle East Events on U.S. Energy Markets
On February 10, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
held a hearing to examine the impact of riots and political
upheaval in North Africa and the Middle East on global oil
markets and U.S. energy security. The Subcommittee received
testimony from representatives of the Energy Information
Administration, Deutsche Bank AG, Citizens for Affordable
Energy, Province of Alberta's Minister-Counselor, the Louisiana
Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association, and the Apollo Alliance.
EPA's Greenhouse Gas Regulations and Their Effect on American Jobs
On March 1, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power held
a hearing entitled ``EPA's Greenhouse Gas Regulations (GHG) and
Their Effect on American Jobs.'' The Subcommittee received
testimony from the Ohio Coal Association, James River Air
Conditioning Company Inc., McConnell Honda & Acura, a private
citizen, the Steyer-Taylor Center for Energy Policy and Finance
at Stanford Law School, Industrial Energy Consumers of America,
and the Assistant Administrator at the Office of Air and
Radiation for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Climate Science and EPA's Greenhouse Gas Regulations
On March 8, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power held
a hearing entitled ``Climate Science and EPA's Greenhouse Gas
Regulations (GHG).'' The Subcommittee received testimony from a
Professor Emeritus of Scripps Institution of Oceanography at
the University of California at San Diego, the Director of
Earth System Science Center at the University of Alabama in
Huntsville, the Director of the Department of Global Ecology at
the Carnegie Institution of Washington, a Senior Research
Scientist of the Cooperative Institute for Research in
Environmental Sciences at the University of Colorado at
Boulder, the Director of the Department of Pacific Climate
Impacts Consortium at the University of Victoria, the Director
of the University of Michigan Biological Station, and a
Professor Emeritus at the Uniformed Services University of
Health Sciences.
The Fiscal Year 2012 Proposed Budget of the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency
On March 11, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power and
the Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy held a joint
oversight hearing on the Environmental Protection Agency's
(EPA) proposed budget for fiscal year 2012. The purpose of the
hearing was to evaluate the proposed $8.9 billion budget for
EPA, which affects issues such as funding for climate change,
air quality programs, drinking water system compliance, cleanup
of hazardous waste sites within the Superfund account,
scientific research that underpins regulatory decision-making,
homeland security activities, and air quality programs. The
sole witness was Lisa P. Jackson, the EPA Administrator.
The Fiscal Year 2012 Department of Energy and Nuclear Regulatory
Commission Budgets
On March 16, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power and
the Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy held a joint
hearing on the fiscal year 2012 Department of Energy and the
Nuclear Regulatory Commission budgets. The purpose of the
hearing was to evaluate the proposed budgets, current
priorities, and current programs and initiatives of the
Department of Energy and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The
hearing also examined the status of the nuclear reactors in
Japan following the earthquake and tsunami which occurred on
March 11, 2011. The Subcommittees received testimony from the
Secretary of the Department of Energy and the Chairman of the
Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Oil Supplies, Gasoline Prices, and Jobs in the Gulf of Mexico
On March 7, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power held
the first day of its hearing on ``The American Energy
Initiative.'' The hearing focused on oil supplies, gasoline
prices, and jobs in the Gulf of Mexico. The Subcommittee
received testimony from representatives of the Energy Policy
Research Foundation, Louisiana State University, the Shallow
Water Energy Security Coalition, the Offshore Marine Service
Association, the Marine Well Containment Company, the
Mississippi Gulf Coast Tourism Commission, and the Consumer
Federation of America.
EPA's Greenhouse Gas and Clean Air Act Regulations: A Focus on Texas''
Economy, Energy Prices, and Jobs
On March 24, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
held a field hearing in Houston, Texas on the Environmental
Protection Agency's (EPA) greenhouse gas and Clean Air Act
regulations. The purpose of the hearing was to examine EPA's
implementation of current and potential greenhouse gas
regulations, the burdens and costs associated with those
regulations, as well as EPA's actions with respect to the Texas
Flexible Air Permitting Program. The hearing included testimony
from the Assistant Administrator of the EPA, State officials,
Texas Public Policy Foundation, and the East Harris County
Manufacturers Association.
China's Energy Portfolio and the Implications for Jobs and Energy
Prices in the United States
On April 4, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power held
the second hearing of the ``The American Energy Initiative''
series. The hearing focused on China's energy portfolio and
implications for jobs and energy prices in the United States.
The Subcommittee received testimony from representatives of
Douglas-Westwood, the World Coal Association, the World
Resources Institute, and the Institute for Energy Research.
EPA Rulemakings Relating to Boilers, Cement Manufacturing Plants, and
Utilities
On April 15, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
held a hearing focused on recent EPA rulemakings setting
utility, cement manufacturing plant, and boiler ``Maximum
Achievable Control Technology'' standards. Witnesses testified
on the impacts and the timelines for implementing these rules,
in the context of the economy and other recent EPA rulemakings
as well as the public health and environmental costs and
benefits of the rules. Specific issues included the current
schedules for issuance and implementation of the rules, the
costs and feasibility of implementing the rules, and the
potential impacts of the rules on jobs, the economy, and energy
reliability. The Subcommittee received testimony from Southern
Company, DTE Energy, Titan America LLC, the Clean Energy Group,
MeadWestvaco Corporation, the University of Notre Dame, and the
Natural Resources Defense Council.
Alternative Transportation Fuels and Vehicles
On May 5, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power held
the sixth hearing of ``The American Energy Initiative'' series.
The hearing focused on the challenges and opportunities for
alternative transportation fuels and vehicles. The Subcommittee
received testimony from representatives of the U.S. Energy
Information Administration, the Environmental Protection
Agency, the U.S. Department of Energy, Tesla Motors,
NGVAmerica, the Energy Policy Research Foundation, Inc., the
RAND Corporation, the National Association of Convenience
Stores, the Renewable Fuels Association, and the Advanced
Biofuels Association.
The American Energy Initiative: Pipeline Safety
On June 16, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power held
a hearing entitled, ``The American Energy Initiative,'' which
focused on pipeline safety. The Subcommittee received testimony
from the Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Material
Safety Administration at the Department of Transportation and
other stakeholders.
The American Energy Initiative: EPA Regulations and Reliability of the
Electric Grid
On September 14, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
held a hearing entitled, ``The American Energy Initiative,''
which focused on the potential cumulative effects of the
Environmental Protection Agency's new and proposed power sector
regulations on the reliability of the electric grid. The
Subcommittee received testimony from the Federal Energy
Regulatory Commission, State officials, and other policy
experts.
The American Energy Initiative: Electric Transmission Issues
On October 13, 2011, the Subcommittee on Energy and Power
held a hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative,'' and
focused on electric transmission issues, including topics
related to the siting, planning, and allocation of costs for
electricity transmission infrastructure. The Subcommittee
received testimony from the Honorable Jon Wellinghoff, Chairman
of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, a representative
of the Department of Energy, State officials, and policy
experts.
The American Energy Initiative: EPA's Utility MACT Rule
On Wednesday, February 8, 2012, the Subcommittee on Energy
and Power held the fifteenth hearing of the ``The American
Energy Initiative'' series. The hearing focused on what EPA's
Utility MACT rule will cost U.S. consumers as well as the
public health and environmental costs and benefits of the rule.
The Subcommittee received testimony from the Assistant
Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency,
representatives from NERA Economic Consulting, Gerdau Long
Steel North America, RMB Consulting & Research, Inc., Harvard
School of Public Health, the Navajo Nation, Evangelical
Environmental Network, and the Economic Policy Institute.
The American Energy Initiative: Rising Gasoline Prices
On Wednesday, March 7, 2012, the Subcommittee on Energy and
Power held the sixteenth hearing of the ``The American Energy
Initiative'' series. The hearing focused on rising gasoline
prices, examining the current market; financial, and
geopolitical factors that influence the current price of oil;
the effect of high gasoline prices on U.S. consumers and
businesses; forecasted trends in the global and U.S. oil
supply, demand, and price; and, Federal policy solutions to
mitigate the effects of high gasoline prices. The Subcommittee
received testimony from the American Petroleum Institute, the
Rapidan Group, American Fuel & Petrochemical Manufacturers,
Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association, the Center for
American Progress, the Truman National Security Project, and
the National Association of Convenience Stores.
The Fiscal Year 2013 Department of Energy Budget
On Thursday, March 8, 2012, the Subcommittee on Energy and
Power held a hearing on the U.S. Department of Energy's budget
for fiscal year 2013. The purpose of the hearing was to examine
and evaluate funding priorities, major budget changes, planned
rulemaking, priority science and research, loans and grants,
management and security, and enforcement activities. The sole
witness was the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Energy.
The Future of Energy Technology with an Emphasis on Canadian Oil Sands
On Tuesday, March 20, 2012, the Subcommittee on Energy and
Power held a hearing entitled ``The American Energy
Initiative,'' which focused on the future of energy technology
with an emphasis on Canadian oil sands. The Subcommittee
received testimony from various industry experts including the
Presidents and CEOs of Alberta Innovates--Energy and
Environment Solutions, N-Solv Corporation, and MEG Energy
Corporation, a former Director of the Naval Oil Shale Reserve
with the U.S. Department of Energy, a former Minister of Energy
of the Province of Alberta, the Policy Director of the Pembina
Institute, and the Climate & Energy Campaigner for Greenpeace
Canada.
HEARINGS HELD
Hearing entitled ``H.R. ___, the `Energy Tax Prevention Act
of 2011.''' (February 9, 2011) Serial Number 112-2.
Hearing entitled ``The Effects of Middle East Events on
U.S. Energy Markets.'' (February 10, 2011) Serial Number 112-4.
Hearing entitled ``EPA's Greenhouse Gas Regulations and
Their Effect on American Jobs.'' (March 1, 2011) Serial Number
112-12.
Hearing entitled ``Climate Science and EPA's Greenhouse Gas
Regulations.'' (March 8, 2011) Serial Number 112-16.
Hearing entitled ``The FY2012 EPA Budget.'' (March 11,
2011) Serial Number 112-19.
Hearing entitled ``The FY2012 Department of Energy and
Nuclear Regulatory Commission Budgets.'' (March 16, 2011)
Serial Number 112-20.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 1):
Oil Supplies, Gasoline Prices, and Jobs in the Gulf of
Mexico.'' (March 17, 2011) Serial Number 112-22.
Hearing entitled ``EPA's Greenhouse Gas and Clean Air Act
Regulations: A Focus on Texas' Economy, Energy Prices and
Jobs.'' (March 24, 2011) Serial Number 112-26.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 2):
China's Energy Portfolio and the Implications for Jobs and
Energy Prices in the United States.'' (April 4, 2011) Serial
Number 112-31.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 3):
H.R. ___, a Discussion Draft of the `Transparency in Regulatory
Analysis of Impacts on the Nation Act of 2011.''' (April 7,
2011) Serial Number 112-35.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 4):
Discussion Draft of H.R. ___, the `Jobs and Energy Permitting
Act of 2011.''' (April 13, 2011) Serial Number 112-37.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 5):
Recent EPA Rulemakings Relating to Boilers, Cement
Manufacturing Plants, and Utilities.'' (April 15, 2011) Serial
Number 112-41.
Hearing entitled ``The Role of the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission in America's Energy Future.'' (May 4, 2011) Serial
Number 112-43.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 6):
Overview of the Challenges and Opportunities for Alternative
Transportation Fuels and Vehicles.'' (May 5, 2011) Serial
Number 112-45.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 7):
Discussion Draft of H.R. ___, the `Jobs and Energy Permitting
Act of 2011.''' (May 13, 2011) Serial Number 112-47.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 8):
Discussion Draft of H.R. ___, the `North American Made Energy
Security Act of 2011.''' (May 23, 2011) Serial Number 112-49.
Hearing entitled ``Protecting the Electric Grid: H.R. ___,
the `Grid Reliability and Infrastructure Defense Act.''' (May
31, 2011) Serial Number 112-52.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 9):
H.R. 909, `Roadmap for America's Energy Future.''' (June 3,
2011) Serial Number 112-57.
Hearing entitled ``H.R. 2054, the `Energy and Revenue
Enrichment Act of 2011.''' (June 13, 2011) Serial Number 112-
59.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 10):
Pipeline Safety Oversight.'' (June 16, 2011) Serial Number 112-
63.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 11):
a Discussion Draft of H.R. ___, the `Pipeline Infrastructure
and Community Protection Act of 2011.''' (July 15, 2011) Serial
Number 112-77A.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 11):
a Discussion Draft of H.R. ___, the `Pipeline Infrastructure
and Community Protection Act of 2011.''' (July 21, 2011) Serial
Number 112-77B.
Hearing entitled ``H.R. 2250, the `EPA Regulatory Relief
Act of 2011,' and H.R. 2681, the `Cement Sector Regulatory
Relief Act of 2011.''' (September 8, 2011) Serial Number 112-
82.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 12):
the Impacts of the Environmental Protection Agency's New and
Proposed Power Sector Regulations on Electric Reliability.''
(September 14, 2011) Serial Number 112-83.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 13):
Electric Transmission Issues, Including Topics Related to the
Siting, Planning, and Allocation of Costs for Electricity
Transmission Infrastructure.'' (October 13, 2011) Serial Number
112-97.
Hearing entitled ``H.R. 1633, the `Farm Dust Regulation
Prevention Act of 2011.''' (October 25, 2011) Serial Number
112-99.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 14):
Expediting the Keystone XL Pipeline; Energy Security and
Jobs.'' (December 2, 2011) Serial Number 112-106.
Hearing entitled ``American Jobs Now: A Legislative Hearing
on H.R. 3548, the North American Energy Access Act (Day 1).''
(January 25, 2012) Serial Number 112-108A.
Hearing entitled ``American Jobs Now: A Legislative Hearing
on H.R. 3548, the `North American Energy Access Act' (Day 2).''
(February 3, 2012) Serial Number 112-108B.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 15):
What EPA's Utility MACT Rule Will Cost U.S. Consumers.''
(February 8, 2012) Serial Number 112-113.
Hearing entitled ``The FY 2013 EPA Budget.'' (February 28,
2012) Serial Number 112-119.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 16):
Rising Gasoline Prices.'' (March 7, 2012) Serial Number 112-
124.
Hearing entitled ``The FY 2013 DOE Budget.'' (March 8,
2012) Serial Number 112-124.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 17):
the Future of Energy Technology with an Emphasis on Canadian
Oil Sands.'' (March 20, 2012) Serial Number 112-128.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 18):
a discussion draft of H.R. ___, the `Gasoline Regulations Act
of 2012;' and of H.R. ___, the `Strategic Energy Production Act
of 2012.''' (March 28, 2012) Serial Number 112-133.
Hearing entitled ``The American Energy Initiative (Day 19):
H.R. 4273, the `Resolving Environmental and Grid Reliability
Conflicts Act of 2012;' and H.R. ___, the `Hydropower
Regulatory Efficiency Act of 2012.''' (May 9, 2012) Serial
Number 112-141.
Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy
(Ratio 14-9)
JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois, Chairman
GENE GREEN, Texas, TIM MURPHY, Pennsylvania,
Ranking Member Vice Chairman
TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin ED WHITFIELD, Kentucky
G.K. BUTTERFIELD, North Carolina JOSEPH R. PITTS, Pennsylvania
JOHN BARROW, Georgia MARY BONO MACK, California
DORIS O. MATSUI, California JOHN SULLIVAN, Oklahoma
FRANK PALLONE, Jr., New Jersey CHARLES F. BASS, New Hampshire
DIANA DeGETTE, Colorado ROBERT E. LATTA, Ohio
LOIS CAPPS, California CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS,
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan, Washington
(Ex Officio--non voting) GREGG HARPER, Mississippi
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California BILL CASSIDY, Louisiana
(Ex Officio) CORY GARDNER, Colorado
JOE BARTON, Texas
FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: All matters relating to soil and water contamination; The
regulation of solid, hazardous, and nuclear wastes; The regulation of
industrial plant security; The regulation of drinking water; and, The
regulation of toxic substances and noise.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
Full Implementation of the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards
Act
(H.R. 908)
To extend the authority of the Secretary of Homeland
Security to maintain the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism
Standards program.
Summary
H.R. 908 amends section 550(b) of the Department of
Homeland Security Appropriations Act for fiscal year 2007
(Public Law 109-295; 6 U.S.C. 121 note) by extending the
Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards Program (CFATS)
until October 4, 2017.
Under this law, the Secretary of Homeland Security (DHS) is
authorized to issue interim final regulations establishing
risk-based performance standards for the security of facilities
with chemicals of interest, and requiring vulnerability
assessments and the development and implementation of site
security plans for such facilities.
Legislative History
H.R. 908 was introduced by Mr. Murphy on March 3, 2011, and
referred to Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On March 11, 2011, the bill was referred to the
Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy, and the
Subcommittee held a legislative hearing on the bill on March
31, 2011. The Subcommittee received testimony from the
Department of Homeland Security, the National Association of
Chemical Distributors, the American Coatings Association, the
Society of Chemical Manufacturers and Affiliates, and the Blue-
Green Alliance.
The Subcommittee met in open markup session on May 4, 2011,
and H.R. 908 was forwarded to the full Committee, as amended,
by a voice vote.
On May 25 and 26, 2011, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in open markup session and ordered H.R. 908
favorably reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call
vote of 33 yeas and 16 nays.
On September 19, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 908 to the House (H. Rept. 112-211), and the bill
was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 139).
Recycling Coal Combustion Residuals Accessibility Act of 2011 or the
RCCRA Act of 2011
(H.R. 1391)
To prohibit the Environmental Protection Agency from
regulating fossil fuel combustion waste under subtitle C of the
Solid Waste Disposal Act.
Summary
H.R. 1391 amends the Solid Waste Disposal Act (SWDA) by
exempting fly ash waste, bottom ash waste, slag waste, and flue
gas emission control waste generated primarily from the
combustion of coal or other fossil fuels from regulation as
hazardous waste.
Legislative History
H.R. 1391 was introduced in the House by Mr. McKinley on
April 6, 2011, and referred to the Committee on Energy and
Commerce.
On April 6, 2011, H.R. 1391 was referred to the
Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy. The Subcommittee
held a legislative hearing on H.R. 1391 on April 14, 2011, and
received testimony from the Environmental Protection Agency,
the Association of State and Territorial Solid Waste Management
Officials, the American Coal Ash Association, Gradient, Veritas
Economic Consulting, Earthjustice, and a private citizen.
On June 16, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy met in open markup session to consider H.R. 1391, and
the Subcommittee immediately recessed until June 21, 2011, when
it considered H.R. 2273, which is similar to H.R. 1391.
For further information, see H.R. 2273.
Coal Residuals Reuse and Management Act
(H.R. 2273)
To amend subtitle D of the Solid Waste Disposal Act to
facilitate recovery and beneficial use, and provide for the
proper management and disposal, of materials generated by the
combustion of coal and other fossil fuels.
Summary
H.R. 2273 would replace current EPA regulatory options
under the Solid Waste Disposal Act with authority for States to
adopt and implement coal combustion residual permit programs
subject to standards set out in H.R. 2273.
Legislative History
On April 6, 2011, Mr. McKinley (WV), introduced H.R. 1391,
the ``Recycling Coal Combustion Residuals Accessibility Act of
2011,'' (the precursor to H.R. 2273). On April 6, 2011, the
bill was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and
referred to the Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy.
On April 14, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy held a legislative hearing on the bill.
On June 16, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy met in open markup session to consider H.R. 1391. The
bill was not called up, and the Subcommittee immediately
recessed.
On June 21, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy met in open markup session and forwarded a Committee
Print entitled the ``Coal Residuals Reuse and Management Act,''
without amendment, to the full Committee.
On June 22, 2011, H.R. 2273, the ``Coal Residuals Reuse and
Management Act'' was introduced by Mr. McKinley (WV), and
referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. On June 22,
2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce referred the bill to
the Subcommittee on Environment and the Economy.
On July 11, 12, and 13, 2011, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in open markup session and ordered H.R. 2273
reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call vote of 35
yeas and 12 nays. On September 26, 2011, the Committee on
Energy and Commerce reported H.R. 2273 to the House (H. Rept.
112-226), and the bill was placed on the Union Calendar
(Calendar No. 147).
On October 14, 2011, H.R. 2273 was considered in the House
pursuant to H. Res. 431, and the bill was passed by a roll call
vote of 267 yeas and 144 nays (Roll Call No. 800).
On October 17, 2011, H.R. 2273 was received in the Senate,
read the first time, and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar
under Read the First Time. On October 18, 2011, H.R. 2273 was
read the second time and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar
under General Orders (Calendar No. 202).
The provisions of H.R. 2273 are identical to the text of
Mr. McKinley's amendment (H. Amdt. 1015), which was adopted by
a voice vote during consideration of H.R. 4348, the ``Surface
Transportation Extension Act of 2012, Part II,'' on April 18,
2012.
H.R. 4348 was introduced by Mr. Mica on April 16, 2012, and
referred to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure,
and in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means, the
Committee on Natural Resources, the Committee on Science,
Space, and Technology, and the Committee on Energy and
Commerce, for a period to be subsequently determined by the
Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as
fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
On April 18, 2012, H.R. 4348 was considered in the House
pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 619, and the bill was
passed, as amended, by a roll call vote of 293 yeas and 127
nays (Roll Call No. 170).
On April 18, 2012, H.R. 4348 was received in the Senate,
and on April 24, 2012, the Senate passed the bill, as amended,
by unanimous consent. The Senate insisted upon its amendment,
asked for a conference, appointed the following conferees, Sen.
Boxer, Sen. Baucus, Sen. Rockefeller, Sen. Durbin, Sen. Johnson
(SD), Sen. Schumer, Sen. Nelson (FL), Sen. Menendez, Sen.
Inhofe, Sen. Vitter, Sen. Hatch, Sen. Shelby, Sen. Hutchison,
and Sen. Hoeven, and sent a message on Senate action to the
House.
On April 25, 2012, the House disagreed to the Senate
amendment, agreed to a conference by unanimous consent, and the
Speaker appointed conferees. From the Committee on Energy and
Commerce, the Speaker appointed Mr. Upton, Mr. Whitfield, and
Mr. Waxman for consideration of section 142 and Title II and
Title V of the House bill, and sections 1113, 1201, 1202,
subtitles B, C, D, and E of Title I of Division C, sections
32701-32705, 32710, 32713, 40101, and 40301 of the Senate
amendment, and modifications committed to conference.
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
Environmental Regulation, the Economy, and Jobs
On February 15, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and
the Economy held a hearing entitled ``Environmental Regulation,
the Economy, and Jobs.'' The Subcommittee examined the impact
of rules issued by the Environmental Protection Agency under
President Obama. Regulatory and economic experts as well as
representatives from business associations, affected companies,
and a law professor were heard.
The Fiscal Year 2012 Proposed Budget of the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency
On March 11, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy and the Subcommittees on Energy and Power held a joint
oversight hearing on the Environmental Protection Agency's
(EPA) proposed budget for fiscal year 2012. The purpose of the
hearing was to evaluate the proposed $8.9 billion budget for
EPA, which affects issues such as funding for climate change,
air quality programs, drinking water system compliance, cleanup
of hazardous waste sites within the Superfund account,
scientific research that underpins regulatory decision-making,
homeland security activities, and air quality programs. The
sole witness was Lisa P. Jackson, the EPA Administrator.
The Fiscal Year 2012 Department of Energy and Nuclear Regulatory
Commission Budgets
On March 16, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy and the Subcommittees on Energy and Power held a joint
hearing on the fiscal year 2012 Department of Energy and
Nuclear Regulatory Commission Budgets. The purpose of the
hearing was to evaluate the proposed budgets, current
priorities, and current programs and initiatives of the
Department of Energy and Nuclear Regulatory Commission. The
hearing also examined the status of the nuclear reactors in
Japan following the earthquake and tsunami which occurred on
March 11, 2011. The Subcommittees received testimony from the
Secretary of the Department of Energy and the Chairman of the
Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
The Role of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission in America's Energy
Future
On May 4, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy held a hearing entitled ``The Role of the Nuclear
Regulatory Commission in America's Energy Future.'' The hearing
examined the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's decision-making
process, the impact of the Fukushima nuclear incident on
nuclear safety policy, the status of licensing and re-licensing
nuclear reactors, and a review of the Department of Energy's
license for construction of a repository at Yucca Mountain. The
Subcommittee received testimony from the Chairman and
Commissioners of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
The Department of Energy's Role in Managing Civilian Radioactive Waste
On June 1, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy held a hearing entitled ``The Department of Energy's
Role in Managing Civilian Radioactive Waste.'' The hearing
focused on the Department of Energy's decision to withdraw its
license application for the construction of the Yucca Mountain
high-level nuclear waste repository program and the effects of
that decision. Federal, State, and local officials were heard.
NRC Chairman's Unilateral Decision to Terminate NRC's Review of the DOE
Yucca Mountain Repository License Application
On June, 14, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and
Economy held a hearing entitled ``NRC Chairman's Unilateral
Decision to Terminate NRC's Review of the DOE Yucca Mountain
Repository License Application.'' The purpose of the hearing
was to investigate issues related to the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission's (NRC) review of the Department of Energy's license
application to build the Yucca Mountain Repository. The
Subcommittee received testimony from NRC Inspector General, who
was accompanied by the NRC Assistant Inspector General for
Investigations and a Senior Level Assistant for Investigative
Operations.
NRC Repository Safety Division--Staff Perspective on Yucca License
Review
On June 24, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy conducted a hearing entitled ``NRC Repository Safety
Division--Staff Perspective on Yucca License Review.'' The
hearing focused on the views of the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission (NRC) staff members that were responsible for
conducting the safety evaluation and technical reviews of the
license application for the Yucca Mountain Repository. The
Subcommittee received testimony from NRC staff members within
the Division of High-Level Waste Repository Safety and the
Office of Nuclear Material Safety and Safeguards.
Regulatory Chaos: Finding Legislative Solutions to Benefit Jobs and the
Economy
On July 14, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy held a hearing entitled ``Regulatory Chaos: Finding
Legislative Solutions to Benefit Jobs and the Economy.'' The
purpose of the hearing was to review issues related regulation
and regulatory reform. The Subcommittee received testimony from
the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, National Association of
Manufacturers, National Federation of Independent Business
Legal Center, and the American Farm Bureau Federation.
Chemical Risk Assessment: What Works for Jobs and the Economy?
On October 6, 2011, the Subcommittee on Environment and the
Economy held a hearing entitled ``Chemical Risk Assessment:
What Works for Jobs and the Economy?'' The hearing explored the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) chemical risk
assessment program--the Integrated Risk Information System
(IRIS) and its role in the setting of State and Federal
environmental regulations, as well as its non-regulatory impact
on commercial markets. Witnesses included representatives from
the Environmental Protection Agency, the Government
Accountability Office, the National Academy of Sciences,
regulatory experts, stakeholders, and public and private sector
scientists.
Recommendations of the Blue Ribbon Commission on America's Nuclear
Future
On February 1, 2012, the Subcommittee on Environment and
the Economy held a hearing entitled ``Recommendations of the
Blue Ribbon Commission on America's Nuclear Future.'' The
hearing reviewed the findings and recommendations of the Blue
Ribbon Commission in its January 2012 Report to the Secretary
of Energy, focusing on the future of America's nuclear waste
management program. The Subcommittee received testimony from
the two Co-Chairs of the Blue Ribbon Commission, and experts on
nuclear issues.
Evaluating Internal Operation and Implementation of the Chemical
Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards Program (CFATS) by the Department of
Homeland Security
On February 3, 2012, the Subcommittee on Environment and
the Economy held a hearing entitled ``Evaluating Internal
Operation and Implementation of the Chemical Facility Anti-
Terrorism Standards program (CFATS) by the Department of
Homeland Security.'' The hearing focused on an internal report
concerning the implementation and operation of the CFATS
program by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The
Subcommittee received testimony from two DHS witnesses: the
Honorable Rand Beers, Under Secretary for the National
Protection and Programs Directorate (NPPD) and Mr. David Wulf,
Deputy Director, Infrastructure Security Compliance Division,
Office of Infrastructure Protection, National Protection and
Programs Directorate.
The FY 2013 EPA Budget
On February 28, 2012, the Subcommittee on Environment and
the Economy held a hearing entitled ``The FY 2013 EPA Budget.''
The hearing focused on examining the Environmental Protection
Agency's (EPA) fiscal year 2013 Budget. The Subcommittee
received testimony from the Administrator of the EPA.
HEARINGS HELD
Hearing entitled ``Environmental Regulations, the Economy,
and Jobs.'' (February 15, 2011) Serial Number 112-6.
Hearing entitled ``The FY2012 EPA Budget.'' (March 11,
2011) Serial Number 112-19.
Hearing entitled ``The FY2012 Department of Energy and
Nuclear Regulatory Commission Budgets.'' (March 16, 2011)
Serial Number 112-20.
Hearing entitled ``H.R. 908, a bill to extend the authority
of the Secretary of Homeland Security to maintain the Chemical
Facility Anti-Terrorism Standards Program.'' (March 31, 2011)
Serial Number 112-28.
Hearing entitled ``H.R. 1391, a bill to prohibit the
Environmental Protection Agency from regulating fossil fuel
combustion waste under subtitle C of the Solid Waste Disposal
Act (42 U.S.C. 6921).'' (April 14, 2011) Serial Number 112-40.
Hearing entitled ``The Role of the Nuclear Regulatory
Commission in America's Energy Future.'' (May 4, 2011) Serial
Number 112-43.
Hearing entitled ``The Department of Energy's Role in
Managing Civilian Radioactive Waste.'' (June 1, 2011) Serial
Number 112-54.
Hearing entitled ``The NRC Inspector General Report on the
`NRC Chairman's Unilateral Decision to Terminate NRC's Review
of the DOE Yucca Mountain Repository License Application.'''
(June 14, 2011) Serial Number 112-61.
Hearing entitled ``NRC Repository Safety Division--Staff
Perspective on Yucca License Review.'' (June 24, 2011) Serial
Number 112-67.
Hearing entitled ``Regulatory Chaos: Finding Legislative
Solutions to Benefit Jobs and the Economy.'' (July 14, 2011)
Serial Number 112-74.
Hearing entitled ``Chemical Risk Assessment: What Works for
Jobs and the Economy?'' (October 6, 2011) Serial Number 112-93.
Hearing entitled ``Recommendations of the Blue Ribbon
Commission on America's Nuclear Future.'' (February 1, 2012)
Serial Number 112-109.
Hearing entitled ``Evaluating Internal Operation and
Implementation of the Chemical Facility Anti-Terrorism
Standards program (CFATS) by the Department of Homeland
Security.'' (February 3, 2012) Serial Number 112-111.
Hearing entitled ``The FY 2013 EPA Budget.'' (February 28,
2012) Serial Number 112-119.
Hearing entitled ``H.R. 4345, The `Domestic Fuels
Protection Act of 2012.''' (April 19, 2012) Serial Number 112-
138.
Subcommittee on Health
(Ratio 16-11)
JOSEPH R. PITTS, Pennsylvania,
Chairman
FRANK PALLONE, Jr., New Jersey, MICHAEL C. BURGESS, Texas,
Ranking Member Vice Chairman
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan ED WHITFIELD, Kentucky
EDOLPHUS TOWNS, New York JOHN SHIMKUS, Illinois
ELIOT L. ENGEL, New York MIKE ROGERS, Michigan
LOIS CAPPS, California SUE WILKINS MYRICK, North Carolina
JAN SCHAKOWSKY, Illinois TIM MURPHY, Pennsylvania
CHARLES A. GONZALEZ, Texas MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
TAMMY BALDWIN, Wisconsin PHIL GINGREY, Georgia
MIKE ROSS, Arkansas ROBERT E. LATTA, Ohio
JIM MATHESON, Utah CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS, Washington
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California LEONARD LANCE, New Jersey
(Ex Officio) BILL CASSIDY, Louisiana
BRETT GUTHRIE, Kentucky
JOE BARTON, Texas
FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: Public health and quarantine; hospital construction;
mental health and research; biomedical programs and health protection
in general, including public and private health insurance; food and
drugs; and, drug abuse.
LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITIES
Help Efficient, Accessible, Low-Cost, Timely Healthcare (Health) Act of
2011
(H.R. 5)
To improve patient access to health care services and
provide improved medical care by reducing the excessive burden
the liability system places on the health care delivery system.
Summary
H.R. 5 sets conditions for lawsuits arising from health
care liability claims regarding health care goods or services
or any medical product affecting interstate commerce.
Legislative History
H.R. 5 was introduced by Mr. Gingrey on January 24, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on the Judiciary and the
Committee on Energy and Commerce.
The Committee on the Judiciary met in open markup session
on February 9 and February 16, 2011, and ordered H.R. 5
reported to the House, as amended, by a voice vote. On March
17, 2011, the Committee on the Judiciary reported H.R. 5 to the
House (H. Rept. 112-39, Part I).
On March 17, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce was
granted an extension for further consideration of the bill
ending no later than May 13, 2011.
On April 6, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
on H.R. 5.
On May 13, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce was
granted an extension for further consideration ending not later
than May 23, 2011.
On May 10 and 11, 2011, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in open markup session and ordered H.R. 5
favorably reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call
vote of 30 yeas and 20 nays.
On May 23, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 5 to the House, as amended (H. Rept. 112-39, Part
II), and the bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar
No. 47).
On March 20, 21, and 22, 2012, H.R. 5 was considered in the
House pursuant to H. Res. 591, and on March 22, 2012, the bill
was passed by a roll call vote of 223 yeas and 181 nays, 4
present (Roll Call No. 126).
On March 22, 2012, H.R. 5 was received in the Senate, read
the first time, and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under
Read the First Time.
On March 26, 2012, H.R. 5 was read the second time and
placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders
(Calendar No. 353).
On March 27, 2012, the Senate returned papers to House by
unanimous consent.
On March 28, 2012, a message on Senate action was sent to
the House.
On March 29, 2012, H.R. 5 was received in the Senate, read
the first time, and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under
Read the First Time.
On April 16, 2012, H.R. 5 was read the second time and
placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders
(Calendar No. 353).
For further information, see also H.R. 452.
Protect Life Act
(H.R. 358)
To amend the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act to
modify special rules relating to coverage of abortion services
under such Act.
Summary
H.R. 358, Protect Life Act, amends the Patient Protection
and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) to prevent Federal funding of
abortion or abortion coverage except in specified
circumstances. It also ensures that nothing in PPACA can be
construed to require coverage of, or access to, abortion and
ensures that nothing in PPACA allows anyone implementing PPACA
to require coverage of, access to, or training in abortion
services.
Legislative History
H.R. 358 was introduced in the House by Mr. Pitts on
January 20, 2011, and referred to the Committee on Energy and
Commerce.
On February 1, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred H.R. 358 to the Subcommittee on Health. On February 9,
2011, the Subcommittee held a hearing on the bill and received
testimony from an Associate Professor from George Mason
University School of Law; the Chair of the Department of Health
Policy at George Washington University; and the Federal
Legislative Director of the National Right to Life Committee.
The Subcommittee on Health met in open markup session on
February 11, 2011, and forwarded H.R. 358 to the full
Committee, as amended, by a roll call vote of 14 yeas and 9
nays.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in open markup
session on February 15, 2011, and ordered H.R. 358 favorably
reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call vote of 33
yeas and 19 nays. The Committee on Energy and Commerce reported
the bill to the House on March 17, 2011 (H. Rept. 112-40, Part
1).
On March 17, 2011, H.R. 358 was referred sequentially to
the Committee on Ways and Means for a period not later than
April 15, 2011. On April 15, 2011, the Committee on Ways and
Means was granted an extension for further consideration ending
not later than May 20, 2011. On May 20, 2011, the Committee on
Ways and Means was granted an extension for further
consideration ending not later than September 9, 2011. On
September 9, 2011, the Committee on Ways and Means was granted
an extension for further consideration ending not later than
September 12, 2011.
On September 12, 2011, H.R. 358 was discharged by the
Committee on Ways and Means, and the bill was placed on Union
Calendar (Calendar No. 133).
On October 13, 2011, H.R. 358 was considered in the House
pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 430 and passed the House
by a roll call vote of 251 yeas and 172 nays (Roll No. 789).
On October 17, 2011, H.R. 358 was received in the Senate,
read twice, and referred to the Committee on Finance.
Medicare Decisions Accountability Act of 2011
(H.R. 452)
To repeal the provisions of the Patient Protection and
Affordable Care Act providing for the Independent Payment
Advisory Board.
Summary
H.R. 452 repeals sections of the Patient Protection and
Affordable Care Act (PPACA) and restores provisions of law
amended by such sections related to the establishment of an
Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB) to develop and submit
detailed proposals to reduce the per capita rate of growth in
Medicare spending to the President for Congress to consider.
The bill does retain requirements for expedited consideration
of IPAB related proposals to reduce Medicare spending.
Legislative History
On January 26, 2011, Mr. Roe introduced H.R. 452, which was
referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, and in addition to
the Committee on Rules, and the Committee on Energy and
Commerce.
On January 27, 2011, the bill was referred to the
Subcommittee on Health. On February 29, 2012, the Subcommittee
on Health met in open markup session and forwarded H.R. 452 to
the full Committee, without amendment, by a roll call vote of
17 yeas and 5 nays.
On March 5, 2012, the Committee on Energy and Commerce met
in open markup session and ordered H.R. 452 to the House, as
amended, by a voice vote.
On March 16, 2012, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 452 to the House (112-412, Part II), and the bill
was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 284).
H.R. 452 was incorporated into H.R. 5 pursuant to H. Res.
591.
For further information, see also H.R. 5.
Veterinary Health Amendments of 2011
(H.R. 525)
To amend the Public Health Service Act to enhance and
increase the number of veterinarians trained in veterinary
public health.
Summary
H.R. 525 revises the public health workforce grant and loan
repayment programs within the Public Health Service Act to
include public health veterinarians.
H.R. 525 defines ``veterinary public health'' to include
veterinarians engaged in one or more of the following areas to
the extent such areas have an impact on human health:
biodefense and emergency preparedness, emerging and reemerging
infectious diseases, environmental health, ecosystem health,
pre- and post-harvest food protection, regulatory medicine,
diagnostic laboratory medicine, veterinary pathology,
biomedical research, the practice of food animal medicine in
rural areas, and government practice.
Legislative History
H.R. 525 was introduced by Ms. Baldwin on February 8, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On February 10, 2011, the bill was referred to the
Subcommittee on Health. The Subcommittee met in open markup
session on February 11, 2011, and H.R. 525 was forwarded to the
full Committee, without amendment, by a voice vote.
The full Committee met in open markup session on February
15, 2011, and ordered H.R. 525 favorably reported to the House
by a voice vote.
On March 2, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 525 to the House (H. Rept. 112-22), and the bill
was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 10).
On March 8, 2011, H.R. 525 was considered under suspension
of the Rules and passed the House by a roll call vote of 280
yeas and 138 nays (Roll Call No. 164).
On March 9, 2011, H.R. 525 was received in the Senate and
referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and
Pensions.
Neglected Infections of Impoverished Americans Act of 2011
(H.R. 528)
To require the submission of a report to the Congress on
parasitic diseases among poor Americans.
Summary
H.R. 528, the Neglected Infections of Impoverished
Americans Act of 2011, would require the Secretary of the
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to issue a report
to the Congress on the epidemiology and impact of the neglected
diseases of poverty and the appropriate level of funding
required to address those diseases. HHS must conduct the study
of these diseases within 12 months, including Chagas disease,
cysticercosis, toxocariasis, toxoplasmosis, trichomoniasis,
soil-transmitted helminthes, and related parasitic diseases.
Legislative History
H.R. 528 was introduced by Mr. Johnson (GA) on February 8,
2011, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On February 10, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred H.R. 528 to the Subcommittee on Health. On February
11, 2011, the Subcommittee met in open markup session and
forwarded H.R. 528 to the full Committee, without amendment, by
a voice vote.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in open markup on
February 15, 2011, and ordered H.R. 528 favorably reported to
the House, without amendment, by a voice vote.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce reported H.R. 528 to
the House on March 2, 2011 (H. Rept. 112-23).
On March 2, 2011, H.R. 528 was placed on the Union Calendar
(Calendar No. 11).
Dental Emergency Responder Act of 2011
(H.R. 570)
To amend the Public Health Service Act to enhance the roles
of dentists and allied dental personnel in the Nation's
disaster response framework, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 570, the Dental Emergency Responder Act, would allow,
but not require, the Department of Health and Human Services to
utilize dentists and dental facilities as part of Federal
public health disaster response preparedness framework.
Legislative History
H.R. 570 was introduced by Mr. Burgess on February 9, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On February 10, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred H.R. 570 to the Subcommittee on Health.
The Subcommittee met in open markup session on February 11,
2011, and forwarded H.R. 570 to the full Committee, without
amendment, by a voice vote.
On February 15, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
met in open markup session and ordered H.R. 570 favorably
reported to the House, without amendment, by a voice vote.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce reported H.R. 570 to
the House on March 2, 2011 (H. Rept. 112-24). On March 8, 2011,
H.R. 570 was considered in the House under suspension of the
Rules, and passed the House by a roll call vote of 401 yeas and
12 nays (Roll No. 163).
On March 9, 2011, H.R. 570 was received in the Senate, read
twice, and referred to the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions.
Fiscal Responsibility and Retirement Security Act of 2011
(H.R. 1173)
To repeal the CLASS program.
Summary
H.R. 1173 repeals a provision of the Public Health Service
Act enacted under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care
Act entitled the ``Community Living Assistance Services and
Supports Act'' or the ``CLASS Act.''
Legislative History
H.R. 1173 was introduced by Mr. Boustany, Jr. on March 17,
2011, and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and
in addition to the Committee on Ways and Means.
On March 28, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred the bill to the Subcommittee on Health. The
Subcommittee met in open markup session on November 15, 2011,
and H.R. 1173 was forwarded to the full Committee, without
amendment, by a voice vote.
On November 29, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
met in open markup session and ordered H.R. 1173 favorably
reported to the House, as amended, by a roll call vote of 33
yeas and 17 nays.
On December 23, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 1173 to the House, as amended (H. Rept. 112-342,
Part I). On January 23, 2012, H.R. 1173 was placed on the Union
Calendar (Calendar No. 253).
On February 1, 2012, H.R. 1173 was considered in the House
pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 522, and the bill was
passed by a roll call vote of 267 yeas and 159 nays (Roll Call
No. 18).
H.R. 1173 was received in the Senate on February 2, 2012.
On February 27, 2012, H.R. 1173 was read once and placed on
Senate Legislative Calendar under Read the First Time. On
February 28, 2012, H.R. 1173 was read the second time and
placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders
(Calendar No. 331).
To Repeal Mandatory Funding Provided to States in the Patient
Protection and Affordable Care Act To Establish American Health Benefit
Exchanges
(H.R. 1213)
Summary
H.R. 1213 amends the Patient Protection and Affordable Care
Act to repeal provisions appropriating funds to the Secretary
of Health and Human Services to award grants to States for
activities, including planning activities, related to
establishing an American Health Benefit Exchange. The
legislation strikes the unlimited direct appropriation that is
available until the end of 2014 and rescinds any unobligated
funds.
Legislative History
H.R. 1213 was introduced by Mr. Upton on March 29, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On March 29, 2011, the bill was referred to the
Subcommittee on Health. The Subcommittee met in open session on
March 31, 2011, and H.R. 1213 was forwarded to the full
Committee, without amendment, by a roll call vote of 14 yeas
and 11 nays.
The full Committee met in open markup session on April 5,
2011, and ordered H.R. 1213 favorably reported to the House,
without amendment, by a roll call vote of 31 yeas and 20 nays.
On April 27, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 1213 to the House (H. Rept. 112-65), and the bill
was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 33).
On May 3, 2011, H.R. 1213 was considered in the House
pursuant to H. Res. 236, and the bill was passed by a roll call
vote of 238 yeas and 183 nays (Roll Call No. 285).
On May 4, 2011, H.R. 1213 was received in the Senate, read
the first time, and placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar.
On May 5, 2011, the bill was read the second time and placed on
the Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders (Calendar
No. 39).
To Repeal Mandatory Funding for School-Based Health Center Construction
(H.R. 1214)
To repeal mandatory funding for school-based health center
construction.
Summary
H.R. 1214 amends the Patient Protection and Affordable Care
Act to repeal the program requiring the Secretary of Health and
Human Services to award grants to school-based health centers
or their sponsoring facilities to support the construction or
renovation of such health centers. The bill rescinds any
unobligated appropriations for the program.
Legislative History
On March 9, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
on draft legislation that became H.R. 1214.
H.R. 1214 was introduced by Mr. Burgess on March 29, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce and, in
addition, to the Committee on Education and the Workforce.
On March 29, 2011, the bill was referred to the
Subcommittee on Health. The Subcommittee met in open markup
session on March 31, 2011, and H.R. 1214 was forwarded to the
full Committee, without amendment, by a roll call vote of 14
yeas and 11 nays.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in open markup
session on April 5, 2011, and ordered H.R. 1214 favorably
reported to the House, without amendment, by a roll call vote
of 27 yeas and 15 nays.
On April 27, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 1214 to the House (H. Rept. 112-66, Part 1), the
Committee on Education and Labor was discharged, and the bill
was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 34).
On May 3 and 4, 2011, H.R. 1214 was considered in the House
pursuant to H. Res. 236, and on May 4, 2011, the bill was
passed by a roll call vote of 235 yeas and 191 nays (Roll Call
No. 290).
On May 5, 2011, H.R. 1214 was received in the Senate, read
twice, and referred to the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions.
To Amend Title V of the Social Security Act To Convert Funding for
Personal Responsibility Education Programs From Direct Appropriations
to an Authorization of Appropriations
(H.R. 1215)
To amend title V of the Social Security Act to convert
funding for personal responsibility education programs from
direct appropriations to an authorization of appropriations.
Summary
H.R. 1215 amends title V of the Social Security Act to
convert funding for Personal Responsibility Education Programs
from a direct appropriation to an authorization of
appropriations. The bill also rescinds any unobligated funds
made available under section 513 of such Act.
Legislative History
On March 9, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
on draft legislation that became H.R. 1215.
H.R. 1215 was introduced by Mr. Latta on March 29, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On March 29, 2011, the bill was referred to the
Subcommittee on Health. The Subcommittee met in open markup
session on March 29, 2011, and forwarded H.R. 1215 to the full
Committee, without amendment, by a roll call vote of 15 yeas
and 11 nays.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in open markup
session on April 5, 2011, and ordered H.R. 1215 favorably
reported to the House, without amendment, by a roll call vote
of 25 yeas and 17 nays.
On April 27, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 1215 to the House (H. Rept. 112-63), and the bill
was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 31).
To Amend the Public Health Service Act To Convert Funding for Graduate
Medical Education in Qualified Teaching Health Centers From Direct
Appropriations to an Authorization of Appropriations
(H.R. 1216)
To amend the Public Health Service Act to convert funding
for graduate medical education in qualified teaching health
centers from direct appropriations to an authorization of
appropriations.
Summary
H.R. 1216 amends the Public Health Service Act to convert
funding for graduate medical education in qualified teaching
health centers from a direct appropriation to an authorization
of appropriations. H.R. 1216 also rescinds any unobligated
balances appropriated for such programs.
Legislative History
On March 9, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
on draft legislation that became H.R. 1216.
H.R. 1216 was introduced by Mr. Guthrie on March 29, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On March 29, 2011, the bill was referred to the
Subcommittee on Health. The Subcommittee met in an open markup
session on March 31, 2011, and H.R. 1216 was forwarded to the
full Committee, without amendment, by a roll call vote of 14
yeas and 11 nays.
The Committee on Energy and Commerce met in an open markup
session on April 5, 2011, and ordered H.R. 1216 favorably
reported to the House, without amendment, by a roll call vote
of 21 yeas and 14 nays.
On April 27, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 1216 to the House (H. Rept. 112-64), and the bill
was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 32).
On May 24 and 25, 2011, H.R. 1216 was considered in the
House pursuant to H. Res. 269, and the bill was passed by a
roll call vote of 234 yeas and 185 nays (Roll Call No. 340).
On May 26, 2011, H.R. 1216 was received in the Senate, read
twice, and referred to the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions.
A Bill To Repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund
(H.R. 1217)
To repeal the Prevention and Public Health Fund.
Summary
The bill amends the Patient Protection and Affordable Care
Act to repeal provisions establishing and appropriating funds
to the Prevention and Public Health Fund, which is administered
by the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human
Services. H.R. 1217 rescinds any unobligated funds appropriated
to the fund and directs the Secretary to post a notice of any
rescission and the amounts to be rescinded.
Legislative History
On March 9, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
on draft legislation that became H.R. 1217.
H.R. 1217 was introduced by Mr. Pitts on March 29, 2011,
and referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On March 29, 2011, the bill was referred to the
Subcommittee on Health. The Subcommittee met in open markup
session on March 31, 2011, and H.R. 1217 was forwarded to the
full Committee by a roll call vote of 14 yeas and 11 nays.
The full Committee met in an open markup session on April
5, 2011, and ordered H.R. 1217 to the House, without amendment,
by a roll call vote of 26 yeas and 16 nays.
On April 11, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 1217 to the House (H. Rept. 112-57), and the bill
was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 29).
On April 13, 2011, H.R. 1217 was considered in the House
pursuant to H.Res. 219, and the bill was passed, as amended, by
a roll call vote of 236 yeas and 183 nays (Roll Call No. 264).
On April 14, 2011, H.R. 1217 was received in the Senate,
read twice, and referred to the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions.
Synthetic Drug Control Act of 2011
(H.R. 1254)
To amend the Controlled Substances Act to place synthetic
drugs in Schedule I.
Summary
H.R. 1254 amends the Controlled Substances Act to add
synthetic drugs that imitate the hallucinogenic or stimulant
properties of drugs like marijuana, cocaine, or
methamphetamines to the list of Schedule I controlled
substances. In addition, H.R. 1254 enhances the authority of
the Drug Enforcement Administration to temporarily schedule new
substances.
Legislative History
On March 30, 2011, H.R. 1254 was introduced by Mr. Dent and
referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in
addition to the Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to be
subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for
consideration of such provisions as fall within the
jurisdiction of the committee concerned.
On April 7, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
referred H.R. 1254 to the Subcommittee on Health.
On July 21, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled ``Legislative Hearing to Address Bioterrorism,
Controlled Substances and Public Health Issues,'' during which
it considered H.R. 1254.
On July 26, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health met in open
markup session, and H.R. 1254 was forwarded to the full
Committee, as amended, by a voice vote.
On July 28, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce met
in open markup session, and H.R. 1254 was ordered reported to
the House, as amended, by a voice vote.
On November 22, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
and the Committee on the Judiciary reported H.R. 1254 to the
House (H. Rept. 112-291, Part I and Part II, respectively), and
the bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 47).
On December 8, 2011, H.R. 1254 was considered in the House
under suspension of the Rules and passed the House by a roll
call vote of 317 yeas to 98 nays (Roll Call No. 904).
H.R. 1254 was received in the Senate, read twice, and
referred to the Committee on the Judiciary.
State Flexibility Act
(H.R. 1683)
To restore the longstanding partnership between States and
the Federal Government in managing the Medicaid program.
Summary
H.R. 1683 amends the Patient Protection and Affordable Care
Act (PPACA) and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of
2009 (ARRA) to repeal certain State Medicaid and State
Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) maintenance of
effort requirements under Title XIX and Title XXI of the Social
Security Act.
Legislative History
H.R. 1683 was introduced by Mr. Gingrey on May 3, 2011, and
referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On May 6, 2011, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee
on Health. On May 12, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health met in
open markup session and forwarded H.R. 1683 to the full
Committee, without amendment, by a roll call vote of 14 yeas
and 9 nays.
H.R. 1683 is substantially similar to provisions included
in Title I, ``Repeal of Certain ACA Funding Provisions'' of the
Committee on Energy and Commerce's Reconciliation
Recommendations submitted to the Committee on the Budget, and
which were included in Title II of H.R. 5652.
For further information, see also the Proposed Matter for
Inclusion in Reconciliation Recommendations.
The Children's Hospital GME Support Authorization Act
of 2011
(H.R.1852)
To amend the Public Health Service Act to reauthorize
support for graduate medical education programs in children's
hospitals.
Summary
H.R. 1852 reauthorizes the Children's Hospital Graduate
Medical Education program through 2016 to provide freestanding
children's hospitals with Federal support for direct and
indirect expenses associated with operating medical residency
training programs.
Legislative History
H.R. 1852 was introduced by Mr. Pitts on May, 11, 2011, and
referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On May 13, 2011, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee
on Health. On July 26, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health met in
open markup session and forwarded H.R. 1852 to the full
Committee, without amendment, by a voice vote.
On July 28, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce met
in open markup session and ordered H.R. 1852 reported to the
House, without amendment, by a voice vote.
On September 12, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 1852 to the House (H. Rept. 112-205), and the
bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 132).
On September 20, 2011, H.R. 1852 was considered under
suspension of the Rules and passed the House by a voice vote.
On September 21, 2011, H.R. 1852 was received in the
Senate, read twice, and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar
under General Orders (Calendar No. 175).
Combating Autism Reauthorization Act of 2011
(H.R. 2005)
To Reauthorize the Combating Autism Act of 2006.
Summary
The bill amends the Public Health Service Act to extend and
reauthorize the surveillance and research program for autism
spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities.
Legislative History
On May 26, 2011, Mr. Smith (NJ) introduced H.R. 2005, which
was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On June 3, 2011, H.R. 2005 was referred to the Subcommittee
on Health, and on July 11, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health
held a legislative hearing on the bill.
On September 20, 2011, H.R. 2005 was considered in the
House under suspension of the Rules, and the bill passed the
House by a voice vote.
On September 21, 2011, H.R. 2005 was received in the
Senate, read twice, and placed on the Senate Legislative
Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No. 174). On September
26, 2011, the bill passed the Senate by a voice vote.
H.R. 2005 was presented to the President on September 29,
2011, and the President signed the bill on September 30, 2011
(Public Law 112-32).
Pandemic and All-Hazards Preparedness Reauthorization Act of 2011
(H.R. 2405)
To reauthorize certain provisions of the Public Health
Service Act and the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
relating to public health preparedness and countermeasure
development, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 2405 amends the Public Health Service Act to
reauthorize appropriations for public health preparedness
activities, including activities related to tracking the
initial distribution of Federally purchased influenza vaccine
in an influenza pandemic, State and local public health and
medical preparedness and response, improving hospital surge
capacity, expanding the capabilities of the Assistant Secretary
for Preparedness and Response to respond effectively to
bioterrorism and other public health emergencies, and the
operations of the National Disaster Medical System.
Legislative History
Mr. Rogers (MI) introduced H.R. 2405 on June 28, 2011,
which was referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. On
July 6, 2011, the bill was referred to the Subcommittee on
Health.
On July 21, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
on H.R. 2405. On July 26, 2011, the Subcommittee met in open
markup session, and H.R. 2405 was forwarded to the full
Committee, as amended, by a voice vote.
On July 28, 2011, the Committee on Energy and Commerce met
in open markup session, and ordered H.R. 2405 favorably
reported to the House, as amended, by a voice vote.
On November 16, 2011, the Committee Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 2405 to the House (H. Rept. 112-286), and the
bill was placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 189).
On December 6, 2011, H.R. 2405 was considered in the House
under suspension of the Rules, and passed the House by a voice
vote.
On December 7, 2011, H.R. 2405 was received in the Senate,
read twice, and referred to the Committee on Health, Education,
Labor, and Pensions.
Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act of 2011
(H.R. 3630)
To provide incentives for the creation of jobs, and for
other purposes.
Summary
Section 3003 of the bill (Medicare Physician Payment Rates)
would prevent a 27.4 percent cut in Medicare physician payment
rates slated to begin on January 1, 2012, and instead increase
payment rates by 1 percent in 2012 and again in 2013. During
this period, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC),
Government Accountability Office (GAO), and Department of
Health and Human Services (HHS) are required to submit reports
to Congress to assist in the development of a long-term
replacement to the current Medicare physician payment system.
The provision also directs the Committee on Ways and Means, the
Committee on Energy and Commerce, and the Committee on
Financial Services to study and review this issue during the
112th Congress and, as part of that process, to solicit input
from key stakeholders.
Sections 3101 extends the Qualifying Individual Program
through December 31, 2012, and provides States with 100 percent
Federal funding for the payment of Medicare Part B premiums for
low-income qualifying individuals. Section 3102 extends the
Transitional Medicaid Assistance program through December 31,
2012, and provides States with a capped funding amount to
continue Medicaid coverage for low-income families with
children as they transition to employment.
The bill includes several health care offsets to cover the
extenders, including, but not limited to, a rebasing of the
Disproportionate Share Hospitals payments and a technical
correction to the disaster recovery Federal match payments to
States.
Legislative History
On December 9, 2011, H.R. 3630 was introduced by Mr. Camp
and referred to the Committee on Ways and Means, the Committee
on Energy and Commerce, the Committee on Financial Services,
the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Committee on
Transportation and Infrastructure, the Committee on
Agriculture, the Committee on Oversight and Government Reform,
the Committee on House Administration, the Committee on Budget,
the Committee on Natural Resources, the Committee on Rules, and
the Committee on Intelligence.
On December 13, 2011, H.R. 3630 was considered in the House
pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 491, and passed the House
by a rollcall vote of 234 yeas and 193 nays (Roll Call No.
923).
On December 13, 2011, H.R. 3630 was read the first time,
and ordered placed on the Senate Legislative Calendar under
Read the First Time. On December 14, 2011, the bill was
received in the Senate, read the second time, and placed on
Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No.
257).
On December 17, 2011, H.R. 3630 passed the Senate with an
amendment by unanimous consent.
On December 20, 2011, the House adopted a motion to
disagree to the Senate amendment and requested a conference
with the Senate by a roll call vote of 229 yeas and 193 nays
(Roll Call No. 946), and the Speaker appointed the following
conferees, Mr. Camp, Mr. Upton, Mr. Brady (TX), Mr. Walden, Mr.
Price (GA), Mr. Reed, Mrs. Ellmers, and Mrs. Hayworth.
On December 23, 2011 the Speaker appointed additional
conferees, including Mr. Levin, Mr. Becerra, Mr. Van Hollen,
Mrs. Schwartz, and Mr. Waxman.
On December 23, 2011, the Senate insisted upon its
amendments and agreed to the House's request to go to
conference, and on January 3, 2012, the Senate appointed
conferees, including Sen. Baucus, Sen. Reed, Sen. Cardin, Sen.
Casey, Sen. Kyl, Sen. Crapo, and Sen. Barrasso.
The conference met on February 2 and 7, 2012. The
conference report (H. Rpt. 112-399) was filed on February 16,
2012.
On February 17, 2012, the conference report was considered
in the House pursuant to the provisions of H. Res. 554, and the
conference report was agreed to by a roll call vote of 293 yeas
and 132 nays (Roll Call No. 72).
The Senate agreed to the conference report by a roll call
vote of 60 yeas and 36 nays (Roll Call No. 22).
On February 22, 2012, H.R. 3639 was presented to and signed
by the President, and the bill became Public Law 112-96.
The Food and Drug Administration Reform Act of 2012
(H.R. 5651)
To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to revise
and extend the user-fee programs for prescription drugs and for
medical devices, to establish user-fee programs for generic
drugs and biosimilars, and for other purposes.
Summary
H.R. 5651 reauthorizes the prescription drug user fee and
medical device user fee, authorizes a generic drug user fee and
biosimilar user fee, reauthorizes the Best Pharmaceuticals for
Children Act and the Pediatric Research Equity Act, institutes
reforms at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to improve
the predictability, consistency, and transparency of its
regulation of drugs and devices, and establishes policies to
address the drug shortage crisis.
Legislative History
On April 18, 2012, the Subcommittee on Health held a
legislative hearing on a Committee Print entitled ``The Food
and Drug Administration Reform Act of 2012.''
On May 8, 2012 the Subcommittee on Health met in open
markup session to consider the Committee Print, which was
forwarded to the full Committee, as amended, by a voice vote.
H.R. 5651 was introduced by Mr. Upton on May 9, 2012, and
referred to the Committee on Energy and Commerce.
On May 9 and 10, 2012, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
met in open markup session and ordered H.R. 5651 favorably
reported to the House, without amendment, by a roll call vote
of 46 yeas and 0 nays.
On May 25, 2012, the Committee on Energy and Commerce
reported H.R. 5654 to the House, without amendment (H. Rept.
112-495), and the bill was placed on the Union Calendar
(Calendar No. 348).
On May 30, 2012, H.R. 5651 was considered in the House
under suspension of the Rules and passed by a roll call vote of
387 yeas and 5 nays (Roll No. 294).
On June 4, 2012, H.R. 5651 was received in the Senate, read
for the first time, and placed on the Senate Legislative
Calendar under General Orders (Calendar No. 420).
Proposed Matter for Inclusion in Reconciliation Recommendations
To provide for recommendations to the House Budget
Committee in response to reconciliation instructions from a
Republican-proposed budget, H. Con. Res. 112.
(TITLE I--REPEAL OF CERTAIN ACA FUNDING PROVISIONS, H.R. 5652)
Summary
Title I repeals certain Patient Protection and Affordable
Care Act (PPACA) funding provisions. First, it amends PPACA to
repeal provisions appropriating funds to the of the Secretary
of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to award
grants to States for activities, including planning activities,
related to establishing an American Health Benefit Exchange.
The proposal also strikes the unlimited direct appropriation
that is available until the end of 2014 and rescinds
unobligated funds.
Second, Title I amends PPACA to repeal provisions
establishing and appropriating funds to the Prevention and
Public Health Fund, which is administered by the Secretary of
HHS. The proposal rescinds any unobligated funds appropriated
to the fund and directs the Secretary to post a notice of any
rescission and the amounts to be rescinded.
Finally, Title I amends PPACA to repeal provisions
appropriating funds for the establishment and operation of the
Consumer Operated and Oriented Plan (CO-OP). The proposal
rescinds any unobligated balance appropriated under such
provisions.
Legislative History
On April 24 and 25, 2012, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in open markup session to consider the Committee
Print entitled ``Title I Repeal of Certain ACA Funding
Provisions.'' The Committee on Energy and Commerce approved the
Committee Print by a roll call vote of 30 yeas to 22 nays. A
motion by Mr. Upton to transmit the Reconciliation
recommendations of the Committee, and all appropriate
accompanying material including additional, supplemental, or
dissenting views, to the Committee on the Budget, in order to
comply with the reconciliation directive included in section
201(a) of the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for fiscal
year 2013, H. Con. Res. 112, and consistent with section 310 of
the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974,
was agreed to by a voice vote.
Title I was included in H.R. 5652, the Sequester
Replacement Reconciliation Act of 2012, as ``Title II, Subtitle
A--Repeal of Certain ACA Funding Provisions and introduced'' on
May 9, 2012, by Mr. Ryan.
On May 10, 2012, H.R. 5652 was considered in the House
pursuant to H. Res. 648, and the bill was passed by a roll call
vote of 218 yeas and 199 nays, 1 present (Roll Call No. 247).
On May 14, 2012, H.R. 5652 was received in the Senate, read
the first time and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under
Read the First Time.
On May 15, 2012, H.R. 5652 was read the second time and
placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders
(Calendar No. 398).
Proposed Matter for Inclusion in Reconciliation Recommendations
To provide for recommendations to the House Budget
Committee in response to reconciliation instructions from a
Republican-proposed budget, H. Con. Res. 112.
(TITLE II--MEDICAID, H.R. 5652)
Summary
Title II amends Title XIX, Medicaid, of the Social Security
Act. First, Title II amends Title XIX of the Social Security
Act to extend the reduction of the threshold level of
permissible State taxes on health care providers before Federal
funding to the State for Medicaid is reduced. The proposal
adjusts the provider tax threshold back to 5.5 percent
beginning in fiscal year 2013. Second, Title II rebases the
disproportionate share hospital allotment (DSH) for fiscal year
2022 to maintain the fiscal year 2021 level of reductions.
Third, Title II repeals the Maintenance of Effort (MOE)
provisions prohibiting States from reducing eligibility for
Medicaid, CHIP, and Title XXI of the Social Security Act, as
mandated by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
(PPACA). Fourth, Title II repeals provisions in PPACA that
increased the Federal medical assistance percentage (FMAP) and
the cap on Federal Medicaid spending for Puerto Rico, the
Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and
American Samoa. Finally, Title II repeals provisions providing
bonus payments to States for enrollment and retention programs
for children covered under Medicaid and CHIP.
Legislative History
On April 24 and 25, 2012, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in open markup session to consider the Committee
Print entitled ``Title II--Medicaid.'' The Committee on Energy
and Commerce approved the Committee Print by a roll call vote
of 30 yeas to 20 nays. A motion by Mr. Upton to transmit the
Reconciliation recommendations of the Committee, and all
appropriate accompanying material including additional,
supplemental, or dissenting views, to the Committee on the
Budget, in order to comply with the reconciliation directive
included in section 201(a) of the Concurrent Resolution on the
Budget for fiscal year 2013, H. Con. Res. 112, and consistent
with section 310 of the Congressional Budget and Impoundment
Control Act of 1974, was agreed to by a voice vote.
Title II was included in H.R. 5652, the Sequester
Replacement Reconciliation Act of 2012, as ``Title II, Subtitle
B--Medicaid'' and introduced on May 9, 2012, by Mr. Ryan.
On May 10, 2012, H.R. 5652 was considered in the House
pursuant to H. Res. 648, and the bill was passed by a roll call
vote of 218 yeas and 199 nays, 1 present (Roll Call No. 247).
On May 14, 2012, H.R. 5652 was received in the Senate, read
the first time and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under
Read the First Time.
On May 15, 2012, H.R. 5652 was read the second time and
placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders
(Calendar No. 398).
Proposed Matter for Inclusion in Reconciliation Recommendations
To provide for recommendations to the House Budget
Committee in response to reconciliation instructions from a
Republican-proposed budget, H. Con. Res. 112.
(TITLE III--LIABILITY REFORM, H.R. 5652)
Summary
Title III sets conditions for lawsuits arising from health
care liability claims regarding health care goods or services
or any medical product affecting interstate commerce to reduce
the burden of the medical liability system on the health care
delivery system.
Legislative History
On April 24 and 25, 2012, the Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in open markup session to consider the Committee
Print entitled ``Title III--Liability Reform.'' The Committee
on Energy and Commerce approved the Committee Print by a roll
call vote of 29 yeas to 22 nays. A motion by Mr. Upton to
transmit the Reconciliation recommendations of the Committee,
and all appropriate accompanying material including additional,
supplemental, or dissenting views, to the Committee on the
Budget, in order to comply with the reconciliation directive
included in section 201(a) of the Concurrent Resolution on the
Budget for fiscal year 2013, H. Con. Res. 112, and consistent
with section 310 of the Congressional Budget and Impoundment
Control Act of 1974, was agreed to by a voice vote.
Title III was included in H.R. 5652, the Sequester
Replacement Reconciliation Act of 2012, as ``Title II, Subtitle
C--Liability Reform'' and introduced on May 9, 2012, by Mr.
Ryan.
On May 10, 2012, H.R. 5652 was considered in the House
pursuant to H. Res. 648, and the bill was passed by a roll call
vote of 218 yeas and 199 nays, 1 present (Roll Call No. 247).
On May 14, 2012, H.R. 5652 was received in the Senate, read
the first time and placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under
Read the First Time.
On May 15, 2012, H.R. 5652 was read the second time and
placed on Senate Legislative Calendar under General Orders
(Calendar No. 398).
OVERSIGHT ACTIVITIES
Impact of Medical Device Regulation on Jobs and Patients
On February 17, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing to examine the state of the medical device industry and
the impact of regulations on job creation and patient access.
The Subcommittee received testimony from the Food and Drug
Administration, ExploraMed Development, the Foundry, a
professor from the University of Minnesota Law School, the
Women's Cardiovascular Services at the University of California
San Francisco Medical Center, and a witness who is a professor
at the Cleveland Clinic Lerner School of Medicine at Case
Western Reserve University and Chairman of the Department of
Cardiovascular Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.
FY 2012 HHS Budget and the Implementation of Public Laws 111-148 And
111-152
On March 3, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled ``FY 2012 HHS Budget and the Implementation of Public
Laws 111-148 and 111-152.'' The hearing examined budget issues
and the implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable
Care Act. The sole witness was the Honorable Kathleen Sebelius,
Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services.
Implementation and Sustainability of the New, Government-Administered
Community Living Assistance Services and Supports (CLASS) Program
On March 17, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``Implementation and Sustainability of the
New, Government-Administered Community Living Assistance
Services and Supports (CLASS) Program.'' The CLASS program is a
voluntary, government-administered long-term care program
intended to provide a cash benefit for the purchase of
nonmedical services to use either at home or at a LTC facility
or residence. The CLASS program, established in section 8002 of
the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA; P.L.
111-148, as amended), is in its initial phase of development.
The hearing looked at the implementation of the CLASS program,
issues related to the program's long-term sustainability, the
financial risks and benefits for the Federal government,
consumers, and employers. The Subcommittee received testimony
from the Administration on Aging, the American Academy of
Actuaries, the American Enterprise Institute, an employee
benefits consultant, the National Industries for the Severely
Handicapped, and a representative of LeadingAge and the Advance
CLASS, Inc.
PPACA and Pennsylvania: One Year of Broken Promises
On March 23, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a field
hearing in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania entitled ``PPACA and
Pennsylvania: One Year of Broken Promises.'' The hearing
examined the effect of the Patient Protection and Affordable
Care Act and the Health Care Reconciliation Act of 2010 on the
State of Pennsylvania and its employers. The Subcommittee
received testimony from the Secretary of the Pennsylvania
Department of Public Welfare, the Acting Insurance Commissioner
of the Pennsylvania Insurance Department, the Chair of the
Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee, the Chair of the
Pennsylvania House Health Committee, and representatives from
the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, Case New
Holland, and the National Federation of Independent Business.
The True Cost of PPACA: Effects on the Budget and Jobs
On March 30, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``The True Cost of PPACA: Effects on the
Budget and Jobs.'' The purpose of the hearing was to examine
effects of PPACA following its enactment, as well as the
potential benefits and possible adverse consequences for both
the cost of employer-provided health coverage and the labor
market. The Subcommittee received testimony from
representatives of the Congressional Budget Office, Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid Services, and independent business
owners.
The Cost of the Medical Liability System Proposals for Reform,
Including H.R. 5, The ``Help Efficient, Accessible, Low-Cost, Timely
Healthcare (HEALTH) Act of 2011''
On April 6, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled, ``The Cost of the Medical Liability System and
Proposals for Reform, including H.R. 5, the Help Efficient,
Accessible, Low-cost, Timely Healthcare (HEALTH) Act of 2011.''
At the hearing, the Subcommittee examined the nation's medical
liability system and approaches for reform.
The Need to Move Beyond the SGR
On May 5, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled ``The Need to Move Beyond the SGR.'' The purpose of
the hearing was to examine potential models to reimburse
physicians under the Medicare program that focuses on value and
quality. The Subcommittee received testimony from experts in
the medical field including the Coalition of State Medical and
National Specialty Societies, the American Medical Association,
the American Academy of Family Physicians, the American College
of Surgeons, the Center for Healthcare Quality and Payment
Reform, and Harvard University.
Expanding Health Care Options: Allowing Americans to Purchase
Affordable Coverage Across State Lines
On May 25, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled ``Expanding Health Care Options: Allowing Americans to
Purchase Affordable Coverage Across State Lines.'' The hearing
examined Federal and State proposals that would allow consumers
to purchase health coverage licensed and sold outside their
State of residence. The Subcommittee received testimony from
representatives from the Department of Health and Human
Services, the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance
Oversight, and other policy experts and stakeholders.
PPACA's Effects on Maintaining Health Coverage and Jobs: A Review of
the Health Care Law's Regulatory Burden
On June 2, 2011 and June 15, 2011, the Subcommittee on
Health held a hearing entitled ``PPACA's Effects on Maintaining
Health Coverage and Jobs: A Review of the Health Care Law's
Regulatory Burden.'' The purpose of the hearing was to examine
the impact of rules issued by the Department of Health and
Human Services to implement the Patient Protection and
Affordable Care Act (PPACA) and the Health Care and Education
Reconciliation Act of 2010. The Subcommittee received testimony
from the Director of the Center for Consumer Information and
Insurance Oversight, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid
Services; and other policy experts and stakeholders.
Dual-Eligibles: Understanding This Vulnerable Population and How To
Improve Their Care
One June 21, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``Dual-Eligibles: Understanding This
Vulnerable Population and How to Improve Their Care.'' The
purpose of the hearing was to inform Members about dual-
eligible beneficiaries and their unique needs, including how
coverage and access to care for duals is managed across the
Medicare and Medicaid programs and what barriers exist to fully
integrate care for this vulnerable and complex patient group so
that quality is improved and unnecessary costs are eliminated.
The Subcommittee received testimony from the Centers for
Medicare and Medicaid Services, Texas Health and Human Services
Commission, Alzheimer's Association, National Pace Association,
and Community Care of North Carolina.
PDUFA V: Medical Innovation, Jobs, and Patients
On July 7, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled ``PDUFA V: Medical Innovation, Jobs, and Patients.''
The purpose of the hearing was to examine issues expected to be
discussed as part of the reauthorization of the Prescription
Drug User Fee Act. The Subcommittee received testimony from the
Food and Drug Administration, OncoMed Pharmaceuticals
Incorporation, Warburg Pincus Limited Liability Company,
National Health Council, Friends of Cancer Research, and the
Pew Charitable Trusts.
IPAB: The Controversial Consequences for Medicare and Seniors
On July 13, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled ``IPAB: The Controversial Consequences for Medicare
and Seniors.'' The hearing discussed the structure of the
Independent Payment Advisory Board (IPAB), the process by which
the Board will develop proposals to reduce spending in the
Medicare program, and the process by which the recommendations
of the Board will become law. The hearing also included a
discussion of the possible impact of the Board on the Medicare
program and the overall health care system. Witnesses included
Senator John Cornyn (TX), Representative Allyson Schwartz (PA-
13), Representative David P. Roe (TN-1), Representative George
Miller (CA-07), Secretary of the Department of Health and Human
Services Kathleen Sebelius, researchers from the Congressional
Research Service, policy analysts, and stakeholders.
Cutting the Red Tape: Saving Jobs From PPACA's Harmful Regulations
On September 15, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``Cutting the Red Tape: Saving Jobs from
PPACA's Harmful Regulations.'' The purpose of the hearing was
to discuss H.R. 2077, the ``MLR Repeal Act of 2011,'' and draft
legislation to prevent enforcement of the grandfathered plan
regulation and preserve the choice of individuals to maintain
their health coverage. The Subcommittee received testimony from
the Department of Health and Human Services, the Heritage
Foundation, Galen Institute, National Association of Health
Underwriters, the Center for Public Integrity, and the
Consumers Union.
Examining the Increase in Drug Shortages
On September 23, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``Examining the Increase in Drug Shortages.''
The hearing examined the causes and effects of drug shortages
in the U.S. health care system. The Subcommittee heard
testimony from a representative from the Department of Health
and Human Services and various stakeholders.
Impact of Medical Device and Drug Regulation on Innovation, Jobs and
Patients: A Local Perspective
On September 26, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a
field hearing entitled ``Impact of Medical Device and Drug
Regulation on Innovation, Jobs and Patients: A Local
Perspective.'' The Subcommittee investigated how Federal
regulations are impacting the medical device community. The
Subcommittee received testimony from the California Healthcare
Institute, Conatus Pharmaceuticals, Inc., National Venture
Capital Association, West Wireless Health Institute, BIOCOM,
CONNECT, and TherOx, Inc.
Food Marketing: Can ``Voluntary'' Government Restrictions Improve
Children's Health''
On October 12, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health and the
Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing and Trade held a joint
hearing entitled ``Food Marketing: Can ``Voluntary'' Government
Restrictions Improve Children's Health?'' The hearing
investigated the document entitled ``Preliminary Proposed
Nutrition Principles to Guide Industry Self-Regulatory
Efforts,'' which was issued by the Interagency Working Group.
The Subcommittees received testimony from representatives of
the Department of Agriculture, the Federal Trade Commission,
and stakeholders and policy experts.
CLASS Cancelled: An Unsustainable Program and Consequences for the
Nation's Deficit
On October 26, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health and the
Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations held a joint
hearing entitled ``CLASS Cancelled: An Unsustainable Program
and Its Consequences for the Nation's Deficit.'' The
Subcommittees examined the intent of the CLASS program and the
ongoing concerns with the program. The Subcommittees received
testimony from Representative Dennis R. Rehberg (MT-AL),
Representative Charles W. Boustany, Jr. (LA-07), Representative
Theodore E. Deutch (FL-19), former-Representative Patrick J.
Kennedy (RI), and representatives from the Department of Health
and Human Services.
Do New Health Law Mandates Threaten Conscience Rights and Access to
Care?
On November 2, 2011, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled, ``Do New Health Law Mandates Threaten
Conscience Rights and Access to Care?'' The hearing examined
the August 3, 2011, interim final rule issued by the Department
of Health and Human Services (HHS), authorized by the Patient
Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), regarding private
health plans coverage of contraception for women. The
Subcommittee heard testimony from various stakeholders.
Reauthorization of PDUFA: What It Means for Jobs, Innovation and
Patients
On February 1, 2012, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``Reauthorization of PDUFA: What it Means for
Jobs, Innovation, and Patients.'' The Subcommittee examined
issues pertaining to the reauthorization of the Prescription
Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA). The hearing also focused on the
reauthorization of the Best Pharmaceuticals for Children Act
(BPCA) and the Pediatric Research Equity Act (PREA) and
pharmaceutical supply chain issues. The Subcommittee received
testimony from the Commissioner of the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration, Pfizer, Inc., California Health Institute,
Biotechnology Industry Organization, Pharmaceutical Research
and Manufacturers of America, the Pew Charitable Trusts,
National Organization for Rare Disorders, and American Academy
of Pediatrics.
The Review of the Proposed Generic Drug and Biosimilars User Fees and
Further Examination of Drug Shortages
On February 9, 2012, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``The Review of the Proposed Generic Drug and
Biosimilars User Fees and Further Examination of Drug
Shortages.'' The Subcommittee examined issues pertaining to the
proposed generic and biosimlars user fees and drug shortages.
The Subcommittee received testimony from the Director of the
Center for Drug Evaluation and Research at the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration, Mylan, Inc., Generic Pharmaceutical
Association, and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Reauthorization of MDUFA: What It Means for Jobs, Innovation, and
Patients
On February 15, 2012, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``Reauthorization of MDUFA: What it Means for
Jobs, Innovation, and Patients.'' The Subcommittee examined
issues pertaining to the reauthorization of the medical device
user fees. The Subcommittee received testimony from the
Director of the Center for Devices and Radiological Health at
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Terumo BCT, Philips
Healthcare, Versant Ventures, Consumers Union, as well as
industry and medical experts.
The Fiscal Year 2013 Health and Human Services Budget
On March 1, 2012, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled ``The FY 2013 HHS Budget.'' The Subcommittee examined
the President's proposed fiscal year 2013 budget for the
Department of Health and Human Services. The Subcommittee
received testimony from the Secretary of the Department of
Health and Human Services.
FDA User Fees 2012: Hearing on Issues Related To Accelerated Approval,
Medical Gas, Antibiotic Development, and Downstream Pharmaceutical
Supply Chain
On March 8, 2012, the Subcommittee on Health held a hearing
entitled ``FDA User Fees 2012: Hearing on Issues related to
Accelerated Approval, Medical Gas, Antibiotic Development, and
Downstream Pharmaceutical Supply Chain.'' The Subcommittee
examined issues pertaining to the reauthorization of FDA user
fees. The Subcommittee received testimony from the Director of
the Center for Drug Evaluation and Research at the U.S. Food
and Drug Administration, Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Friends of
Cancer Research, Compressed Gas Association, Generic
Pharmaceutical Association, Healthcare Distribution Management
Association, National Community Pharmacists Association, the
Pew Charitable Trusts, and an industry expert.
A Review of Efforts To Prevent and Treat Traumatic Brain Injury
On March 19, 2012, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``A Review of efforts to Prevent and Treat
Traumatic Brain Injury.'' The Subcommittee examined the effect
of Federal, State, and private efforts to prevent and
effectively treat traumatic brain injury and resulting
disabilities. The Subcommittee received testimony from the
Director of the Division of Services for Children with Special
Health Care Needs of the Health Resources and Services
Administration at the U.S. Department of Health and Human
Services, the Director of the New Jersey TBI Division at the
New Jersey Department of Health, a medical expert, and Brain
Injury Association of American.
Examining the Current State of Cosmetics
On March 27, 2012, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``Examining the Current State of Cosmetics.''
The Subcommittee evaluated the current state of the cosmetic
industry. The Subcommittee received testimony from the Director
of the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, at the
U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Personal Care Products
Council, Jack Black Skincare, Wholesale Supplies Plus, a
representative of California Department of Public Health, and
industry experts.
FDA User Fees 2012: How Innovation Helps Patients and Jobs
On April 18, 2012, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``FDA User Fees 2012: How Innovation Helps
Patients and Jobs.'' The Subcommittee examined the impact of
FDA user fees on patients and jobs. The Subcommittee received
testimony from the Director of the Center for Drug Evaluation
and Research at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the
Director of the Center for Devices and Radiological Health at
the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Pharmaceutical Research
and Manufacturers of American, Biotechnology Industry
Organization, Generic Pharmaceutical Association, Advanced
Medical Technology Association, and the Pew Charitable Trusts.
A Review of Efforts To Protect the Health of Jockeys and Horses in
Horseracing
On April 30, 2012, the Subcommittee on Health held a
hearing entitled ``A Review of Efforts to Protect the Health of
Jockeys and Horses in Horseracing.'' The Subcommittee review
examined the efforts made in the horseracing industry to
protect jockeys, horses, and the integrity of the sport. The
Subcommittee received testimony from a Hall of Fame jockey,
thoroughbred owners, horse trainers, and a veterinarian.
HEARINGS HELD
Hearing entitled ``H.R. __, a bill to amend the Patient
Protection and Affordable Care Act to modify special rules
relating to coverage of abortion services under such Act.''
(February 9, 2011) Serial Number 112-3.
Hearing entitled ``Impact of Medical Device Regulation on
Jobs and Patients.'' (February 17, 2011) Serial Number 112-9.
Hearing entitled ``Administration's Proposed Budget for
Fiscal Year 2012.'' (March 3, 2011) Serial Number 112-14.
Hearing entitled ``Setting Fiscal Priorities in Health Care
Funding.'' (March 9, 2011) Serial Number 112-17.
Hearing entitled ``The Implementation and Sustainability of
the New, Government-Administered Community Living Assistance
Services and Supports (CLASS) Program.'' (March 17, 2011)
Serial Number 112-23.
Hearing entitled ``PPACA and Pennsylvania: One Year of
Broken Promises.'' (March 23, 2011) Serial Number 112-25.
Hearing entitled ``True Cost of PPACA: Effects on the
Budget and Jobs.'' (March 30, 2011) Serial Number 112-27.
Hearing entitled ``The Cost of the Medical Liability System
Proposals for Reform, including H.R. 5, the `Help Efficient,
Accessible, Low-cost, Timely Healthcare (HEALTH) Act of
2011.''' (April 6, 2011) Serial Number 112-33.
Hearing entitled ``The Need to Move Beyond the SGR.'' (May
5, 2011) Serial Number 112-46.
Hearing entitled ``Expanding Health Care Options: Allowing
Americans to Purchase Affordable Coverage Across State Lines.''
(May 25, 2011) Serial Number 112-50.
Hearing entitled ``PPACA's Effects on Maintaining Health
Coverage and Jobs: A Review of the Health Care Law's Regulatory
Burden (Day 1).'' (June 2, 2011) Serial Number 112-56.
Hearing entitled ``PPACA's Effects on Maintaining Health
Coverage and Jobs: A Review of the Health Care Law's Regulatory
Burden (Day 2).'' (June 15, 2011) Serial Number 112-56B.
Hearing entitled ``Dual-Eligibles: Understanding This
Vulnerable Population and How to Improve Their Care.'' (June
21, 2011) Serial Number 112-64.
Hearing entitled ``PDUFA V: Medical Innovation, Jobs, and
Patients.'' (July 7, 2011) Serial Number 112-70.
Hearing entitled ``Legislative Hearing on Miscellaneous
Public Health and Biosecurity Legislation.'' (July 11, 2011)
Serial Number 112-72.
Hearing entitled ``IPAB: The Controversial Consequences for
Medicare and Seniors.'' (July 13, 2011) Serial Number 112-73.
Hearing entitled ``Legislative Hearing to Address
Bioterrorism, Controlled Substances and Public Health Issues.''
(July 21, 2011) Serial Number 112-79.
Hearing entitled ``Cutting the Red Tape: Saving Jobs from
PPACA's Harmful Regulations.'' (September 15, 2011) Serial
Number 112-85.
Hearing entitled ``Examining the Increase in Drug
Shortages.'' (September 23, 2011) Serial Number 112-88.
Hearing entitled ``Impact of Medical Device and Drug
Regulation on Innovation, Jobs and Patients: A Local
Perspective.'' (September 26, 2011) Serial Number 112-90.
Hearing entitled ``Food Marketing: Can `Voluntary'
Government Restrictions Improve Children's Health?'' (October
12, 2011) Serial Number 112-94.
Hearing entitled ``CLASS Cancelled: An Unsustainable
Program and Its Consequences for the Nation's Deficit.''
(October 26, 2011) Serial Number 112-101.
Hearing entitled ``Do New Health Law Mandates Threaten
Conscience Rights and Access to Care?'' (November 2, 2011)
Serial Number 112-102.
Hearing entitled ``Reauthorization of PDUFA: What It Means
for Jobs, Innovation, and Patients.'' (February 1, 2012) Serial
Number 112-110.
Hearing entitled ``Review of the Proposed Generic Drug and
Biosimilars, User Fees and Further Examination of Drug
Shortages.'' (February 9, 2012) Serial Number 112-114.
Hearing entitled ``Reauthorization of MDUFA: What It Means
for Jobs, Innovation and Patients.'' (February 15, 2012) Serial
Number 112-116.
Hearing entitled ``The FY 2013 HHS Budget.'' (March 1,
2012) Serial Number 112-121.
Hearing entitled ``FDA User Fees 2012: Hearing on Issues
Related to Accelerated Approval, Medical Gas, Antibiotic
Development and Downstream Pharmaceutical Supply Chain.''
(March 8, 2012) Serial Number 112-126.
Hearing entitled ``A Review of Efforts to Prevent and Treat
Traumatic Brain Injury.'' (March 19, 2012) Serial Number 112-
127.
Hearing entitled ``Examining the Current State of
Cosmetics.'' (March 27, 2012) Serial Number 112-132.
Hearing entitled ``FDA User Fees 2012: How Innovation Helps
Patients and Jobs.'' (April 18, 2012) Serial Number 112-136.
Hearing entitled ``A Review of Efforts to Protect the
Health of Jockeys and Horses in Horseracing.'' (April 30, 2012)
Serial Number 112-140.
Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations
(Ratio 14-9)
CLIFF STEARNS, Florida, Chairman
DIANA DeGETTE, Colorado, LEE TERRY, Nebraska
Ranking Member SUE WILKINS MYRICK, North Carolina
JAN SCHAKOWSKY, Illinois JOHN SULLIVAN, Oklahoma
MIKE ROSS, Arkansas TIM MURPHY, Pennsylvania
KATHY CASTOR, Florida MICHAEL C. BURGESS, Texas
EDWARD J. MARKEY, Massachusetts MARSHA BLACKBURN, Tennessee
GENE GREEN, Texas BRIAN P. BILBRAY, California
DONNA M. CHRISTENSEN, Virgin Islands PHIL GINGREY, Georgia
JOHN D. DINGELL, Michigan STEVE SCALISE, Louisiana
HENRY A. WAXMAN, California CORY GARDNER, Colorado
(Ex Officio) H. MORGAN GRIFFITH, Virginia
JOE BARTON, Texas
FRED UPTON, Michigan
(Ex Officio)
Jurisdiction: Responsibility for oversight of agencies, departments,
and programs within the jurisdiction of the full committee, and for
conducting investigations within such jurisdiction.
HEARINGS AND INVESTIGATIVE ACTIVITIES PERTAINING TO CYBERSECURITY
The Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations has
conducted ongoing oversight of issues related to cybersecurity,
including supply chain integrity and matters related to
critical infrastructure security. The Subcommittee received
briefings on cybersecurity issues, including from the
Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Defense, the
Department of Commerce, and the Department of Energy.
Cybersecurity: An Overview of Risks to Critical Infrastructure
On July 26, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Cybersecurity: An
Overview of Threats to Critical Infrastructure.'' The purpose
of the hearing was to provide an overview of the Federal
government's efforts to protect critical infrastructure, such
as the electric grid and nuclear power plants, from cyber
threats and to discuss current cyber threats and risks. The
Subcommittee received testimony from representatives of the
Department of Homeland Security and the Government
Accountability Office.
Critical Infrastructure Cybersecurity: Assessments of Smart Grid
Security
On February 29, 2012, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Critical
Infrastructure Cybersecurity: Assessments of Smart Grid
Security.'' The purpose of the hearing was to examine
cybersecurity threats to the Smart Grid and examine weaknesses
that make the Smart Grid vulnerable to attacks. The
Subcommittee received testimony from the Director of
Information Security Issues at the Government Accountability
Office, the Director of Natural Resources and Environment from
the Government Accountability Office, and a Specialist in
Energy Policy from the Congressional Research Service.
IT Supply Chain Security: Review of Government and Industry Efforts
On March 27, 2012, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``IT Supply Chain
Security: Review of Government and Industry Efforts.'' The
hearing provided an overview of the supply chain risks to
Federal Information Technology (IT) and the Federal
Government's efforts to recognize these risks and mitigate the
impacts they pose. The Subcommittee received testimony from IT-
related officials at the Department of Defense, the Department
of Energy, and the Government Accountability Office, as well as
from private sector experts.
HEARINGS AND INVESTIGATIVE ACTIVITIES PERTAINING TO REGULATORY REFORM
The Views of the Administration on Regulatory Reform
On January 26, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing on the Views of the
Administration on Regulatory Reform. The hearing examined an
Executive Order that President Barack Obama issued on January
18, 2011, entitled ``Improving Regulation and Regulatory
Review,'' how the order will affect the Federal regulatory
landscape, and the costs of regulations to American businesses.
The Subcommittee received testimony from Cass Sunstein, the
Administrator of the Office of Information and Regulatory
Affairs within the Office of Management and Budget.
The Views of the Administration on Regulatory Reform: An Update
On June, 3, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``The Views of the
Administration on Regulatory Reform: An Update.'' The hearing
examined the manner in which the Office of Information and
Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) is implementing Executive Order
13563, entitled ``Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review,''
which President Barack Obama issued on January 18, 2011. The
hearing followed up on a January 26, 2011, Subcommittee on
Oversight and Investigations hearing which involved a
preliminary investigation of Executive Order 13563, its
potential effect on the Federal regulatory landscape, and the
costs of regulations to American businesses. Witnesses heard
were the Honorable Cass R. Sunstein, OIRA Administrator, and
regulatory experts from the Heritage Foundation, National
Resources Defense Council, and U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
The Views of the Department of Health and Human Services on Regulatory
Reform: An Update
On June 13, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``The Views of the
Department of Health and Human Services on Regulatory Reform:
An Update.'' The hearing examined how the Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS) is implementing Executive Order 13563,
``Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review,'' issued by
President Obama on January 18, 2011. The Subcommittee received
testimony from the Honorable Sherry Glied, the Assistant
Secretary for Policy and Evaluation at the Department of Health
and Human Services.
The Views of the Independent Agencies on Regulatory Reform
On July 7, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``The Views of the
Independent Agencies on Regulatory Reform.'' The hearing
examined how the independent agencies within the Committee's
jurisdiction have responded to Executive Order 13563,
``Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review,'' which was
issued by President Obama on January 18, 2011. The Subcommittee
received testimony from representatives of the Consumer Product
Safety Commission, the Federal Communications Commission, the
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, and the Federal Trade
Commission.
Regulatory Reform Series #5--FDA Medical Device Regulation: Impact on
American Patients, Innovation and Jobs
On July 20, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Regulatory Reform
Series #5--FDA Medical Device Regulation: Impact on American
Patients, Innovation and Jobs.'' The purpose of the hearing was
to examine the state of the medical device industry and the
impact regulations and policies at the Center for Devices and
Radiological Health have on patient access, innovation, and job
creation. The Subcommittee received testimony from the Food and
Drug Administration, Fischell Biomedical, Transcend Medical,
Progressive Policy Institute, a patient advocate, and patients.
Regulatory Reform Series #7--The EPA's Regulatory Planning, Analysis,
and Major Actions
On September 22, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Regulatory Reform
Series #7--The EPA's Regulatory Planning, Analysis, and Major
Actions.'' The purpose of the hearing was to focus on how the
Environmental Protection Agency's decision-making process and
regulatory activity comport with the President's regulatory
review and planning principles. The Subcommittee received
testimony from the Honorable Lisa P. Jackson, Administrator of
the Environmental Protection Agency.
Administration Efforts on Line-by-Line Budget Review
On October 5, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled, ``Administration
Efforts on Line-by-Line Budget Review.'' The hearing examined
the Administration's efforts to review the Federal budget to
eliminate unnecessary, duplicative, or wasteful government
programs and to cut costs and create new efficiencies in
retained programs. The Subcommittee received testimony from a
representative from the Congressional Research Service and
other policy experts.
Regulatory Reform Series #8--Private-Sector Views of the Regulatory
Climate One Year After Executive Order 13563
On Thursday, February 16, 2012, the Subcommittee on
Oversight and Investigations held a hearing entitled
``Regulatory Reform Series #8--Private-Sector Views of the
Regulatory Climate One Year After Executive Order 13563.'' The
purpose of the hearing was to access the regulatory climate
facing American businesses one year after President Obama
issued Executive Order 13563, including impacts on job
creation. The Subcommittee received testimony from private-
sector witnesses including CKE Restaurants, Inc., Tri-State
Generation and Transmission Association, Inc., Oklahoma Gas and
Electric Company, Cross and Crown, Inc., the Environmental
Health Task Force, and Construction Specialties, Inc.
Cutting EPA Spending
On October 12, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Cutting EPA
Spending.'' The purpose of the hearing was to review the
Administration's efforts to identify reductions in the spending
by agencies within the jurisdiction of the Committee on Energy
and Commerce. The hearing sought to discern the results of the
Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) spending-reduction
initiatives, as well as to assist EPA in identifying and
prioritizing further targets for potential elimination or cuts
for Congressional consideration. The Subcommittee received
testimony from the Environmental Protection Agency and the
Government Accountability Office.
HEARINGS AND INVESTIGATIVE ACTIVITIES PERTAINING TO HEALTH AND HEALTH
CARE
Health Care Issues Involving the Center for Consumer Information and
Insurance Oversight
On February 16, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Health Care Issues
Involving the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance
Oversight'' (CCIIO). The hearing examined the operations of
CCIIO and its role in the changes made to the health care
system after the passage of the Patient Protection and
Affordable Care Act. Witnesses included representatives from
CCIIO and the Department of Health and Human Services.
Heparin Contamination
On February 23, 2011, Chairman Upton, Chairman Stearns, and
Mr. Burgess launched an investigation into the unsolved case of
who contaminated the U.S. supply of heparin (a blood-thinner
drug) and the adequacy of the Food and Drug Administration's
(FDA) handling of the matter. The inquiry was started with a
document request to the FDA.
Waste, Fraud, and Abuse: A Continuing Threat to Medicare and Medicaid
On March 2, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Waste, Fraud, and
Abuse: A Continuing Threat to Medicare and Medicaid.'' The
hearing examined reports of waste, fraud, and abuse in Medicare
and Medicaid and what measures can be taken to combat any
problems. The Subcommittee received testimony from
representatives of Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services,
the Government Accountability Office, the Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS), the HHS Office of the Inspector
General, the Florida International University College of Law,
Florida's Agency for Health Care Administration, and George
Washington University's School of Public Health and Health
Services.
The PPACA's High Risk Pool Regime: High Cost, Low Participation
On April 1, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``The PPACA's High Risk
Pool Regime: High Cost, Low Participation.'' The hearing
examined the operations of the Center for Consumer Information
and Insurance Oversight (CCIIO) and its role in the changes
made to the health care system after the passage of the Patient
Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA). The Subcommittee
received testimony from Mr. Steve Larsen, the Deputy
Administrator and Director for CCIIO.
Import Safety: Status of FDA's Screening Efforts at the Border
On April 13, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Import Safety: Status
of FDA's Screening Efforts at the Border.'' The purpose of the
hearing was to examine the current state of the Food and Drug
Administration's (FDA) import screening processes and the pace
of FDA's nationwide rollout of the promising risk-based
automated entry review system, known as PREDICT. The
Subcommittee received testimony from the Honorable Margaret A.
Hamburg, M.D., Commissioner of the Food and Drug
Administration.
Deals Between the White House and Trade Association in the Development
of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA)
On February 18, 2011, leaders of the Committee on Energy
and Commerce sent a letter to the White House Deputy Chief of
Staff, Nancy DeParle, requesting documents and information
regarding negotiations between the Obama Administration and
various industries and special interests as the health care law
was being developed.
On April 19, 2011, Committee leaders sent letters to the
top interest groups, lobbying associations, and companies
involved in the closed door negotiations during the writing of
PPACA.
On May 3, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``White House
Transparency, Visitor Logs and Lobbyists.'' The hearing
examined the Administration's policies on transparency and
lobbyist access to the Executive Branch. The Center for Public
Integrity testified regarding a study that noted omissions in
the visitors logs released by the White House, especially
regarding lobbyist visits and visits related to health reform.
The Subcommittee also received testimony from representatives
of government watchdog groups.
Protecting Medicare With Improvements to the Secondary Payer Regime
On June 22, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Protecting Medicare
with Improvements to the Secondary Payer Regime.'' The hearing
examined the state of the Medicare Secondary Payer (MSP) system
and whether it adequately protects the interests of Medicare
beneficiaries, businesses, health plans, taxpayers, and the
Medicare Trust Fund. Witnesses included representatives from
the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Government
Accountability Office, Publix Super Markets, Cincinnati
Insurance Company, the Medicare Rights Center, and a lawyer
with experience with MSP cases.
CLASS Act
The Committee published an investigatory report addressing
problems with the CLASS Act, a part of the Patient Protection
and Affordable Care Act (PPACA), and revealing details about
who was aware of these problems before passage of PPACA. This
report was drafted with Senator Thune, Congressman Rehberg, the
Committee on Ways and Means, the Committee on Oversight and
Government Reform, and Senator Sessions, Senator Shelby,
Senator Graham, and Senator Coburn.
On October 26, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations and the Subcommittee on Health held a joint
hearing entitled ``CLASS Cancelled: An Unsustainable Program
and Its Consequences for the Nation's Deficit.'' The
Subcommittees examined the intent of the CLASS program and the
ongoing concerns with the program. The Subcommittees received
testimony from Representative Dennis R. Rehberg (MT-AL),
Representative Charles W. Boustany, Jr. (LA-07), Representative
Theodore E. Deutch (FL-19), former-Representative Patrick J.
Kennedy (RI), and representatives from the Department of Health
and Human Services.
The Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight and the
Anniversary of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
On March 21, 2012, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``The Center for
Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight and the
Anniversary of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care
Act.'' The hearing examined the operations of the Center and
its role in changing the health care system two years after the
passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The
Subcommittee received testimony from Steve Larsen, the Director
of the Center for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight
at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Budget and Spending Concerns at HHS
On May 9, 2012, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Budget and Spending
Concerns at HHS.'' The hearing was the fourth in a series of
hearings on the Administration's efforts to identify wasteful,
duplicative, or excessive spending by agencies within the
jurisdiction of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. The
hearing aimed to evaluate the results of Department of Health
and Human Services (HHS) spending-reduction initiatives, as
well as to assist HHS in identifying and prioritizing further
targets for potential elimination or cuts for Congressional
consideration. The Subcommittee received testimony from HHS and
Government Accountability Office (GAO).
Health Care Reform
The Subcommittee conducted continued oversight of the
Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) and the
negotiations that took place as the law was being drafted,
including a review of the effect of PPACA on the members of the
President's Council on Jobs; of discussions between
stakeholders and White House Office of Health Reform and
between the Department of Health and Human Services and the
National Association of Insurance Commissioners
Heparin Contamination
Since May 1, 2011, Chairman Upton, Subcommittee Chairman
Stearns, Subcommittee Chairman Pitts, Chairman Emeritus Barton,
and Subcommittee Vice-Chairman Michael Burgess, sent document
request letters to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE),
ten companies involved in the heparin industry, and the Food
and Drug Administration (FDA). These letters followed up on the
launch of the investigation on February 23, 2011.
Listeria Outbreak in Cantaloupes
On October 21, 2011, the Subcommittee launched a bipartisan
investigation into the causes of the recent listeria outbreak
in cantaloupes, including document requests and staff briefings
with FDA, CDC, Jensen Farms (the grower of the cantaloupes),
Frontera Produce (the distributor), and Primus Labs (a third-
party auditor that inspected the facilities at Jensen Farms
before the outbreak).
Planned Parenthood
On September 15, 2011, the Subcommittee sent a document
request letter to Planned Parenthood Federation of America
(PPFA) and initiated an inquiry examining the institutional
practices and policies of the PPFA and its affiliates' handling
of federal funding. The Subcommittee sought information to
evaluate PPFA and its affiliates' compliance with current
statutory and legal obligations and to determine if PPFA and
its affiliates have policies in place to comply with the
current federal restrictions on the funding of abortions.
HEARINGS AND INVESTIGATIVE ACTIVITIES PERTAINING TO ENERGY AND THE
ENVIRONMENT
Deep Water Horizon
The Subcommittee continued its oversight of the
investigation into the root causes of the April 2010 explosion
on the Deepwater Horizon and resulting oil spill in the Gulf of
Mexico, collecting information from the U.S. Coast Guard (USCG)
and the Department of Interior's Bureau of Ocean Energy
Management, Regulation, and Enforcement (BOEMRE). The
Subcommittee received several briefings from BOEMRE, USCG, and
the U.S. Chemical Safety and Hazardous Investigation Board.
The Subcommittee continued to examine the status of the
Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF), established to pay economic
damage claims, on behalf of BP, to individuals and businesses
harmed as a result of the Deepwater Horizon explosion and oil
spill. Staff also received documents and briefings from the
GCCF administrator and from the U.S. Government Accountability
Office.
EPA Oversight
The Subcommittee initiated an inquiry into the
Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) interpretation of
health benefits information provided to Congress and to the
public. The Subcommittee also initiated an examination of EPA's
process for negotiating settlements of litigation, including
cases in which EPA commits as part of the settlement to
undertake new rulemakings.
Oversight of Doe Recovery Act Spending
On February 17, 2011, Chairman Upton and Chairman Stearns
sent a letter to the Department of Energy (DOE) requesting
documents and information about a $535 million loan guarantee
that the DOE Loan Guarantee Program awarded to Solyndra, Inc.
of Fremont, California.
On March 14, 2011, the investigation was expanded with a
letter sent to the Office of Management and Budget requesting
documents and information about the review of DOE loan
guarantees, especially the loan guarantee to Solyndra.
On March 17, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigation held a hearing entitled ``Oversight of DOE
Recovery Act Spending.'' The hearing provided an update of the
Government Accountability Office's (GAO) and the Department of
Energy Office of Inspector General's (DOE OIG) oversight of DOE
spending under the American Reinvestment and Recovery Act
(Recovery Act). In particular, the Subcommittee examined the
current status of DOE Recovery Act projects and lessons learned
through their implementation. The Recovery Act appropriated
$41.7 billion to DOE. However, GAO and the DOE OIG raised
concerns about the effectiveness of DOE's spending. The
Subcommittee received testimony from DOE, DOE OIG, and GAO.
The U.S. Government Response to the Nuclear Power Plant Incident in
Japan
On April 6, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing on the recent developments at the
Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant in Japan. The hearing
focused on the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission's response to
the incident, both in Japan and in connection with the safety
of U.S. commercial nuclear power plants. On March 11, 2011, an
earthquake and tsunami struck the northeast coast of Japan,
killing thousands and causing a number of accidents at the
Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant, including the cooling system
failure. The Subcommittee heard from representatives of the
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, the Nuclear Energy
Institute, the Union of Concerned Scientists, and the American
Nuclear Society.
OMB's Role in the DOE Loan Guarantee Process
On June 24, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``OMB's Role in the DOE
Loan Guarantee Process.'' The purpose of the hearing was to
provide an overview of the Office of Management and Budget's
involvement in the review of Department of Energy loan
guarantees, in particular, a loan guarantee awarded to
Solyndra, Inc., a California company. The Subcommittee received
no testimony at the hearing. A representative from the Office
of Management and Budget was invited, but did not testify.
EPA's Takeover of Florida's Nutrient Water Quality Standard Setting:
Impact on Communities and Job Creation
On August 9, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a field hearing entitled ``EPA's Takeover
of Florida's Nutrient Water Quality Standard Setting: Impact on
Communities and Job Creation.'' The hearing focused on the
impacts of the Environmental Protection Agency's recent
rulemaking for the State of Florida, which set Federal numeric
nutrient water quality criteria for lakes and flowing water for
Florida and overruled Florida's own process for setting
relevant standards. The Subcommittee received testimony from
the Environmental Protection Agency's Regional Administrator
for the Southeast Region, the Director of the Office of
Agricultural Water Policy at the Florida Department of
Agriculture and Consumer Services, and various stakeholders.
Solyndra and the DOE Loan Guarantee Program
On September 14, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Solyndra and the DOE
Loan Guarantee Program.'' The hearing provided an overview of
the Department of Energy's (DOE) and the Office of Management
and Budget's (OMB) involvement in the review of a loan
guarantee to Solyndra, Inc., in September 2009, and the
restructuring of that deal in February 2011. The hearing also
examined Solyndra's financial position, representations it made
to the government about the financial condition of the company,
and Solyndra's recent bankruptcy filings. The Subcommittee
received testimony from DOE and OMB.
From Department of Energy Loan Guarantee to Bankruptcy to FBI Raid:
What Solyndra's Executives Knew
On September 23, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``From DOE Loan
Guarantee to Bankruptcy to FBI Raid: What Solyndra's Executives
Knew.'' The purpose of the hearing was to examine Solyndra's
representations about its financial status to the Department of
Energy and to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. The
Committee invited senior executives of Solyndra, Inc. to
testify, and they invoked their Fifth Amendment privilege.
Continuing Developments Regarding the Solyndra Loan Guarantee
On October 14, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled, ``Continuing
Developments regarding the Solyndra Loan Guarantee.'' The
hearing focused on the Department of the Treasury's role in
reviewing the Solyndra loan guarantee, particularly with regard
to the Department of Energy's decision to restructure the
Solyndra loan guarantee in February 2011 and subordinate the
first $75 million recovered in the event of liquidation to two
Solyndra investors. The Subcommittee received testimony from
representatives of the Department of the Treasury and the
Department of the Treasury Federal Financing Bank.
The Solyndra Failure: Views From DOE Secretary Chu
On November 17, 2011, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``The Solyndra Failure:
Views from DOE Secretary Chu.'' The hearing focused on the
decisions made with respect to the review and approval of the
Solyndra loan application, including the Department of Energy's
(DOE) decision to restructure the Solyndra loan guarantee in
February 2011 and what DOE knew about Solyndra's financial
condition. The Subcommittee received testimony from the
Honorable Steven Chu, Secretary of the Department of Energy.
Budget and Spending Concerns at DOE
On April 19, 2012, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing entitled ``Budget and Spending
Concerns at DOE.'' The hearing was the third in a series of
hearings on the Administration's efforts to identify wasteful,
duplicative, or excessive spending by agencies within the
jurisdiction of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. The
hearing aimed to evaluate the results of Department of Energy
(DOE) spending-reduction initiatives, as well as to assist DOE
in identifying and prioritizing further targets for potential
elimination or cuts for Congressional consideration. The
Subcommittee heard from representatives of DOE and the
Government Accountability Office.
HEARINGS HELD
Hearing entitled ``The Views of the Administration on
Regulatory Reform.'' (January 26, 2011) Serial Number 112-1.
Hearing entitled ``Health Care Issues Involving the Center
for Consumer Information and Insurance Oversight.'' (February
16, 2011) Serial Number 112-7.
Hearing entitled ``Waste, Fraud, and Abuse: A Continuing
Threat to Medicare and Medicaid.'' (March 2, 2011) Serial
Number 112-13.
Hearing entitled ``Oversight of DOE Recovery Act
Spending.'' (March 17, 2011) Serial Number 112-24.
Hearing entitled ``The PPACA's High Risk Pool Regime: High
Cost, Low Participation.'' (April 1, 2011) Serial Number 112-
29.
Hearing entitled ``The U.S. Government Response to the
Nuclear Power Plant Incident in Japan.'' (April 6, 2011) Serial
Number 112-32.
Hearing entitled ``Import Safety: Status of FDA's Screening
Efforts at the Border.'' (April 13, 2011) Serial Number 112-38.
Hearing entitled ``White House Transparency, Visitor Logs,
and Lobbyists.'' (May 3, 2011) Serial Number 112-42.
Hearing entitled ``The Views of the Administration on
Regulatory Reform: An Update.'' (June 3, 2011) Serial Number
112-58.
Hearing entitled ``The Views of the Department of Health
and Human Services on Regulatory Reform: An Update.'' (June 13,
2011) Serial Number 112-60.
Hearing entitled ``Protecting Medicare with Improvements to
the Secondary Payer Regime.'' (June 22, 2011) Serial Number
112-65.
Hearing entitled ``OMB's Role in the DOE Loan Guarantee
Process.'' (June 24, 2011) Serial Number 112-68.
Hearing entitled ``The Views of the Independent Agencies on
Regulatory Reform.'' (July 7, 2011) Serial Number 112-71.
Hearing entitled ``Regulatory Reform Series #5--FDA Medical
Device Regulation: Impact on American Patients, Innovation and
Jobs.'' (July 20, 2011) Serial Number 112-78.
Hearing entitled ``Cybersecurity: An Overview of Risks to
Critical Infrastructure.'' (July 26, 2011) Serial Number 112-
80.
Hearing entitled ``EPA's Takeover of Florida's Nutrient
Water Quality Standard Setting: Impact on Communities and Job
Creation.'' (September 9, 2011) Serial Number 112-81.
Hearing entitled ``Solyndra and The DOE Loan Guarantee
Program.'' (September 14, 2011) Serial Number 112-84.
Hearing entitled ``Regulatory Reform Series #7--The EPA's
Regulatory Planning, Analysis, and Major Actions.'' (September
22, 2011) Serial Number 112-87.
Hearing entitled ``From DOE Loan Guarantee to Bankruptcy to
FBI Raid: What Solyndra's Executives Knew.'' (September 23,
2011) Serial Number 112-89.
Hearing entitled ``Administration Efforts on Line-by-Line
Budget Review.'' (October 5, 2011) Serial Number 112-92.
Hearing entitled ``Cutting EPA Spending.'' (October 12,
2011) Serial Number 112-95.
Hearing entitled ``Continuing Developments Regarding the
Solyndra Loan Guarantee.'' (October 14, 2011) Serial Number
112-98.
Hearing entitled ``CLASS Cancelled: An Unsustainable
Program and Its Consequences for the Nation's Deficit.''
(October 26, 2011) Serial Number 112-101.
Hearing entitled ``The Solyndra Failure: Views from DOE
Secretary Chu.'' (November 17, 2011) Serial Number 112-104.
Hearing entitled ``Regulatory Reform Series #8--Private-
Sector Views of the Regulatory Climate One Year After Executive
Order 13563.'' (February 16, 2012) Serial Number 112-118.
Hearing entitled ``Critical Infrastructure Cyber-Security:
Assessments of Smart Grid Security.'' (February 28, 2012)
Serial Number 112-120.
Hearing entitled ``The Center for Consumer Information and
Insurance Oversight and the Anniversary of the Patient
Protection and Affordable Care Act.'' (March 21, 2012) Serial
Number 112-129.
Hearing entitled ``IT Supply Chain Security: Review of
Government and Industry Efforts.'' (March 27, 2012) Serial
Number 112-131.
Hearing entitled ``Budget and Spending Concerns at DOE.''
(April 18, 2012) Serial Number 112-137.
Hearing entitled ``Budget and Spending Concerns at HHS.''
(May 9, 2012) Serial Number 112-142.
HEARINGS HELD PURSUANT TO CLAUSES 2(n), (o), or (p) OF RULE XI
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Serial no. Hearing title Hearing date(s)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
112-5............... ARRA Broadband Spending February 10, 2011.
(Subcommittee on
Communications and
Technology).
112-13.............. Waste, Fraud, and Abuse: A March 2, 2011.
Continuing Threat to
Medicare and Medicaid
(Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations).
112-24.............. Oversight of DOE Recovery March 17, 2011.
Act Spending (Subcommittee
on Oversight and
Investigations).
112-38.............. Import Safety: Status of April 13, 2011.
FDA's Screening Efforts at
the Border (Subcommittee
on Oversight and
Investigations).
112-39.............. Warning: The Growing Danger April 14, 2011.
of Prescription Drug
Diversion (Subcommittee on
Commerce, Manufacturing,
and Trade).
112-54.............. The Department of Energy's June 1, 2011.
Role in Managing Civilian
Radioactive Waste
(Subcommittee on
Environment and the
Economy).
112-65.............. Protecting Medicare with June 22, 2011.
Improvements to the
Secondary Payer Regime
(Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations).
112-68.............. OMB's Role in the DOE Loan June 24, 2011.
Guarantee Process
(Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations).
112-78.............. Regulatory Reform Series July 20, 2011.
#5--FDA Medical Device
Regulation: Impact on
American Patients,
Innovation and Jobs
(Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations).
112-80.............. Cybersecurity: An Overview July 26, 2011.
of Threats to Critical
Infrastructure
(Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations).
112-84.............. Solyndra and the DOE Loan September 14, 2011.
Guarantee Program
(Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations).
112-93.............. Chemical Risk Assessment: October 6, 2011.
What Works for Jobs and
the Economy? (Subcommittee
on Environment and the
Economy).
112-98.............. Continuing Developments October 14, 2011.
regarding the Solyndra
Loan Guarantee
(Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations).
112-104............. The Solyndra Failure: Views November 17, 2011.
From DOE Secretary Chu
(Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations).
112-111............. Evaluating Internal February 3, 2012.
Operation and
Implementation of the
Chemical Facility Anti-
Terrorism Standards
program (CFATS) by the
Department of Homeland
Security (Subcommittee on
Environment and the
Economy).
112-117............. The Budget and Spending of February 16, 2012.
the Federal Communications
Commission (Subcommittee
on Communications and
Technology).
112-137............. Budget and Spending April 18, 2012.
Concerns at DOE
(Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations).
112-142............. Budget and Spending May 9, 2012.
Concerns at HHS
(Subcommittee on Oversight
and Investigations).
112-143............. Broadband Loans and Grants May 16, 2012.
(Subcommittee on
Communications and
Technology).
------------------------------------------------------------------------