WASHINGTON, DC - House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) issued the following statement after Health Subcommittee Chairman Joseph R. Pitts (R-PA) announced he will retire at the end of the 114th Congress:
“As Chairman of the Health Subcommittee, Joe Pitts has been a legislative workhorse - from 21st Century Cures, finally fixing SGR, to dozens of public health laws, he’s had his fingerprints on more bills than most folks in Congress. Appointing Joe to the helm of Health was my first action as Energy and Commerce Chairman - and through the years he has been an invaluable lieutenant, thoughtful legislator, and a bedrock champion for life.
“Joe Pitts has done it all - a veteran Air Force pilot in Vietnam, accomplished artist, taught high school math, even built his home in Kennett Square with his bare hands - and in between he’s found time for four decades of distinguished public service in the marble hallways of Harrisburg and Washington. And while he’s had many titles through the years, those that matter most are husband, father, and his proudest - grandfather.
“There is still a lot of work to do, and knowing Joe it’s full speed ahead until the final bells ring on the 114th Congress. Amey and I wish he and his beloved Ginny all the very best as they prepare for a new chapter."
