Congressman Brett Guthrie, Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, delivered remarks on April 22 regarding H.Res. 1182, a resolution that highlights Republican efforts to support rural communities across the United States.
The resolution aims to showcase policies intended to improve life in rural areas, focusing on economic growth and safeguarding government health programs. These issues are significant as they affect access to health care, job opportunities, and essential services for millions living outside urban centers.
In his prepared statement, Guthrie said, “I am pleased to be here today to discuss a resolution demonstrating the work House Republicans continue to do to improve the lives of the American people, especially those who live in rural parts of our great nation.” He also criticized partisan opposition by saying that Democrats “choose partisan politics over the American people,” particularly when it comes to bipartisan policy proposals.
Guthrie described efforts by Republicans in Congress and the Administration aimed at reducing waste and fraud in government health programs. He stated that “Energy and Commerce Republicans have prioritized restoring program integrity in our government health programs throughout this entire Congress,” including launching investigations into Medicaid programs nationwide. Guthrie expressed disappointment about what he called Democrats’ refusal “to come to the table” on issues affecting vulnerable groups such as pregnant women, seniors with low incomes, children, and individuals with disabilities.
He outlined several legislative initiatives pursued by House Republicans: reversing Department of Energy restrictions on liquefied natural gas exports; requiring Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approval for grid planning; reforms supporting Clean Air Act permitting; relief for broadband deployment; improvements in health care access through tax cuts; investments via the Rural Health Transformation Program; as well as measures addressing opioid abuse through acts like SUPPORT Act and HALT Fentanyl Act.
The House Energy and Commerce Committee is responsible for legislation related to energy policy, health care systems, environmental protection standards, telecommunications infrastructure, and consumer protection issues according to its official website. The committee has played a role shaping national policies involving energy innovation projects, expansion of broadband networks into underserved regions—including many rural areas—and oversight of pharmaceutical pricing according to its official website.
Founded originally as the Committee on Commerce and Manufactures in 1795 according to its official website, it is now one of the oldest standing committees within the U.S. House of Representatives according to its official website.
Concluding his remarks about ongoing legislative priorities this session of Congress aimed at accelerating economic opportunity nationwide—especially outside metropolitan areas—Guthrie said: “House Republicans have worked hard—and continue to work hard—this Congress to accelerate economic growth and opportunity for the American people.”
