NE Washington News

Congressman Brett Guthrie, Chairman of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, commenced today's committee markup session with a focus on legislation deemed crucial for Americans. The session primarily dealt with extending key programs addressing substance use disorder and efforts to combat online sexual exploitation.

Guthrie emphasized the bipartisan nature of the bills under consideration. "Every bill we are considering today is bipartisan," he noted, highlighting their unanimous passage through the committee in the previous year and bipartisan consensus across Congress.

Earlier interactions with Ranking Member Pallone showed shared commitment. Referencing Pallone, Guthrie stated, "While we were not able to get these bipartisan bills and provisions signed into law last Congress, I know that we are committed to getting them done this Congress."

The legislative agenda also includes health care reforms aimed at reducing patient costs and supporting cancer research. Additionally, the committee aims to improve communications infrastructure to counteract adversarial threats.

Guthrie pointed out concerns related to new technologies. He remarked, “As a father and grandfather, I am extremely concerned by the stories we are all hearing from parents about the potential unintended consequences of new technologies.”

Legislation targeting issues like romance scams, price transparency in ticketing, and lodging were highlighted as bipartisan victories. Guthrie expressed gratitude to the sponsors, affirming that, "This legislation makes American homes safer, healthier, and more prosperous."

Guthrie expressed eagerness to move the legislation forward in the committee, acknowledging the collective efforts involved: "Thank you all for your hard work, and I look forward to advancing this legislation out of Committee."