WASHINGTON, DC - The House Committee on Energy and Commerce today announced its hearing schedule for the week of Oct. 21, 2013. On Wednesday, the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology will examine of the impact of regulations on the change from traditional voice over copper networks to newer Internet protocol enabled copper and fiber networks. On Thursday, as the rocky rollout of Obamacare continues, the full committee will examine the health care law’s launch. Finally, the Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Subcommittee will review the Federal Trade Commission’s work and goals for the future.
On Wednesday, Oct. 23, the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology will hold a hearing on, “The Evolution of Wired Communications Networks." This hearing continues the subcommittee’s review of the role of regulation in the current technological landscape. Members will examine the evolution from traditional voice over copper networks to Internet protocol enabled copper and fiber networks. They will also discuss the impact of current laws and regulations on advancement, innovation, and job growth in an increasingly Internet-driven world.as they are posted.
On Thursday, Oct. 24, the Energy and Commerce Committee will hold a full committee hearing on “PPACA Implementation Failures: Didn’t Know or Didn’t Disclose?" The administration and the companies involved with implementation repeatedly assured the committee that everything was “on track " for October 1; however, the first two and a half weeks of open enrollment have been defined by significant “glitches" that have prevented Americans from being able to even use the system. Thus far, the administration has rejected the committee’s invitation to participate and publicly answer questions. Committee leaders on Thursday sent a letter to Health and Human Services pressing Secretary Kathleen Sebelius to participate. As Chairman Upton has said, “Secretary Sebelius had time for Jon Stewart, and we expect her to have time for Congress." A Majority Memorandum, a witness list, and witness testimony will be available here as they are posted.
Also on Thursday, Oct. 24, the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade will hold a hearing on “The FTC at 100: Where Do We Go from Here?" In 2014, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) will mark its 100th anniversary. A century after the agency’s founding, the subcommittee will review its mission, operating budget, and authority as it seeks to promote competition and protect consumers in an ever-changing market. Chairwoman of the FTC Edith Ramirez will testify alongside commissioners Julie Brill, Maureen K. Ohlhausen, and Joshua D. Wright.as they are posted.
Hearing Details
Wednesday, October 23
10:30 a.m.
2123 Rayburn House Office Building
Subcommittee on Communications and Technology
Hearing on “The Evolution of Wired Communications Networks"
Thursday, October 24
9 a.m.
2123 Rayburn House Office Building
Energy and Commerce Committee|
Hearing on “PPACA Implementation Failures: Didn’t Know or Didn’t Disclose?"
1 p.m.
2123 Rayburn House Office Building
Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade
Hearing on “The FTC at 100: Where Do We Go from Here?"
