News

Hearings Updates


Jun 5, 2025
Press Release

Chairmen Guthrie and Bilirakis Announce Legislative Hearing on SCORE Act to Standardize NIL for Student-Athletes

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, announced a hearing titled  Winning Off the Field: Legislative Proposal to Stabilize NIL and College Athletics . “College athletics are a central part of American culture. We have heard from student-athletes and universities alike that we need a national framework, which is why we will be introducing and discussing the Student Compensation and Opportunity through Rights and Endorsements (SCORE) Act,”  said Chairman Guthrie and Bilirakis.  “Stability, clarity, and transparency will be central to creating clear guardrails that support student-athletes and preserve the core educational mission of these schools.” Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade hearing titled  Winning Off the Field: Legislative Proposal to Stabilize NIL and College Athletics WHAT:  Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade hearing on stabilizing NIL and College Athletics DATE:  Thursday, June 12, 2025 TIME:  10:00 AM ET LOCATION:  2123 Rayburn House Office Building This notice is at the direction of the Chairmen. The hearing will be open to the public and press and will be live streamed online at  energycommerce.house.gov . If you have any questions concerning the hearing, please contact Alex Khlopin with the Committee staff at  Alex.Khlopin@mail.house.gov . If you have any press-related questions, please contact Daniel Kelly at  Daniel.Kelly@mail.house.gov . ###



Jun 5, 2025
Environment

Chairmen Guthrie and Griffith Announce Hearing on Onshoring American Innovation

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Morgan Griffith (VA-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Environment, announced a hearing titled  Short-Circuiting Progress: How the Clean Air Act Impacts Building Necessary Infrastructure and Onshoring American Innovation. “American innovation should not be stifled by unreasonable government red tape and regulatory overreach. Over the years we saw how regulations have gone far beyond their original intent, chilling investments and pushing manufacturing overseas,”  said Chairmen Guthrie and Griffith .  “This hearing offers a chance to examine ways that Congress can take steps to make environmental statutes more workable, increase domestic manufacturing, and support American jobs.” Subcommittee on Environment hearing titled  Short-Circuiting Progress: How the Clean Air Act Impacts Building Necessary Infrastructure and Onshoring American Innovation WHAT:  Subcommittee on Environment hearing to discuss how the Clean Air Act impacts building infrastructure and onshoring American innovation and potential legislative solutions. DATE:  June 11, 2025 TIME:  10:15AM LOCATION:  2322 Rayburn House Office Building This notice is at the direction of the Chairman. This hearing will be open to the public and press and will be livestreamed at energycommerce.house.gov. If you have any questions about this hearing please contact Calvin Huggins at  Calvin.Huggins1@mail.house.gov . If you have any press related questions please contact Ben Mullany at  Ben.Mullany@mail.house.gov .  ###



Jun 4, 2025
Hearings

Chairman Hudson Delivers Opening Statement at Subcommittee on Communications and Technology Hearing on AI and Communications Infrastructure

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, delivered the following opening statement at today’s hearing titled AI in the Everyday: Current Application and Future Frontiers in Communications and Technology. Subcommittee Chairman Hudson's opening statement as prepared for delivery:   “Good morning, and welcome to today’s subcommittee hearing on examining artificial intelligence (AI) and how it is being used in communications and technology industries. “AI is a hot topic right now, not just in this country, but all over the globe. Although we know that AI has been used in different industries for many years, recent advancements in large language models, machine learning, and generative AI have pushed this technology into the spotlight, capturing public attention and transforming how we live and work.  “The applications for this new technology are widespread and we are continuing to find new ways AI can be used to benefit Americans’ lives.  “Whether you know it or not, almost everyone uses AI in our daily lives. Like when you use ChatGPT to create a shopping list or asking Siri for directions, but even more specifically, the rideshare you called is using AI to find the fastest route based on traffic patterns. “Or how your cell phone provider uses AI to reduce harmful spectrum interference to your phone, ensuring there is no lapse in service.  “The entertainment industry uses AI to predict what types of content viewers may enjoy and drives decisions on when that content should be produced. It is being used to develop content and enhance the editing process.  “Even the National Football League uses AI to create the perfect schedule to limit unnecessary travel for players, create an even playing field for teams, and maximize fan accessibility for the biggest games.  “As demand for AI grows, we must consider what physical infrastructure will be required to continue advanced AI development.  “Storage capacity and energy consumption demands at data centers are expected to skyrocket by 2030 due to increased AI use. As data capacity increases, we will need robust fiber optic and wireless connectivity to ensure powerful new AI systems can reach their fullest potential.  “But the United States is not the only country developing advanced AI. China recently released its DeepSeek AI model, which showed their advancements.  “Our adversaries will stop at nothing to undermine our leadership in technological advancement and utilize AI to threaten our way of life. We must continue to innovate and develop to prevent that from happening. “Competition in AI is a global issue, and it is imperative that the United States maintains its leadership.  “To do this, we must foster an environment where AI companies can innovate, compete, and excel on the global stage. Just like the light regulatory touch that gave rise to the internet and some of the most successful and cutting-edge companies on the planet, AI must be given the same opportunity to ensure American companies set the standard for the rest of the world. “This is an exciting time and opportunity to talk about these issues. Navigating these new and evolving technologies will not be without challenges, but we must meet them head-on.  “Innovation has provided untold benefits to Americans and to our economy. Today, we will hear from our witnesses about how artificial intelligence is being used across the telecommunications, technology, and media industries, as well as what is required for the United States to maintain its leadership in developing AI models. I look forward to hearing from the witnesses today about these issues and how Congress can stand ready as a partner. “I now yield five minutes to my colleague, Ranking Member Doris Matsui, for her opening statement.” ###



Jun 3, 2025
Hearings

Chairmen Guthrie and Latta Announce Hearing on Department of Energy FY2026 Budget

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Bob Latta (OH-05), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Energy, announced a hearing titled The Fiscal Year 2026 Department of Energy Budget . “Under President Trump and Secretary Wright, we have begun to once again unleash American energy,” said Chairmen Guthrie and Latta . “As we work to meet the energy demands of AI and secure our grid, this hearing will offer a chance to discuss what steps we can take to produce and manufacture energy that is abundant, reliable, and affordable.” Subcommittee on Energy hearing titled The Fiscal Year 2026 Department of Energy Budget WHAT: Subcommittee on Energy Hearing on Department of Energy FY26 Budget DATE: June 10, 2025 TIME: 10:00AM LOCATION: 2123 Rayburn House Office Building This notice is at the direction of the Chairman. This hearing will be open to the public and press and will be livestreamed at energycommerce.house.gov. If you have any questions about this hearing please contact Calvin Huggins at Calvin.Huggins1@mail.house.gov . If you have any press related questions please contact Ben Mullany at Ben.Mullany@mail.house.gov . ###



Chairmen Guthrie and Hudson Announce Hearing on Artificial Intelligence and Communications Infrastructure

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02), Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, and Congressman Richard Hudson (NC-09), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology, announced a hearing titled AI in the Everyday: Current Applications and Future Frontiers in Communications and Technology. “Artificial intelligence is launching our economy into a new American golden age marked by development and opportunity, but these increasingly dynamic industries need certainty that our networks can support the future of artificial intelligence and its applications. Fast, reliable networks are crucial for enabling innovation and enhancing America’s technological advantage,”  said Chairmen Guthrie and Hudson.  “We look forward to discussing with our witnesses about how Congress can support this important goal.”  Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing titled  AI in the Everyday: Current Applications and Future Frontiers in Communications and Technology . WHAT: Subcommittee on Communications and Technology hearing on AI and communications infrastructure. DATE:  Wednesday, June 4, 2025  TIME:  10:30 AM ET  LOCATION:  2123 Rayburn House Office Building  This notice is at the direction of the Chairman. The hearing will be open to the public and press and will be livestreamed online at  energycommerce.house.gov . If you have any questions concerning this hearing, please contact Noah Jackson at  Noah.Jackson@mail.house.gov . If you have any press-related questions, please contact Daniel Kelly at  Daniel.Kelly@mail.house.gov



May 21, 2025
Press Release

Subcommittee on CMT Holds Hearing on Seizing America’s AI Opportunity

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, led a hearing titled AI Regulation and the Future of US Leadership .  “Our task is to protect our citizens and ensure that we don’t cede U.S. AI leadership. Much of the AI marketplace is comprised of small start-ups looking to get a foothold in this revolutionary space,” said Chairman Bilirakis. “And heavy-handed regulations may ensure that the next great American company never makes it. If we fail in this task, we risk ceding American leadership in AI to China, which is close on our heels.”  Watch the full hearing here .   Below are key excerpts from today’s hearing: Congressman Russ Fulcher (ID-01): “In the face of Chinese progress in emerging technologies, I'm concerned about the US's ability to maintain its leadership position, if in fact we still have one – I’d like to get your opinion on that – in an AI race. Especially if we were to follow the European approach, which I don't see us doing, or allow a patchwork of AI rules to develop across the various states. So with that, if you could just share, are you confident? Are we still in the lead in AI? And can we continue to maintain the edge in AI technology over China on this path?” Mr. Bhargava: “Yes, I believe the US does still have a lead, but many of the Chinese models are 85 to 90% of the way there to where the cutting-edge US models are. So I'd say it's not a major lead, but we certainly do have a lead from a technology perspective of most of the evaluations of AI models done.” Congressman Jay Obernolte (CA-23): “As the Chairman of the House AI Task Force last year, and as someone who saw this group of 24 members of Congress from both sides all come together on this issue, it really hurts my heart that it's being painted as such a divisive, partisan issue because I don't think it is. You know, the assertions have been made that this was a last-minute thing and ‘in the dead of night.’ I think someone used the phrase ‘it was inserted,’ but I want to talk about the motivation here. It's been very alarming, as we have seen in the first 5 months of this year go by, the number of bills introduced on the topic of AI regulation in state legislatures across the country. Over 1,000 now have been introduced and this is what's lending urgency to this issue.” Congresswoman Laurel Lee (FL-15): “Artificial intelligence is not just the technology of the future. It is already transforming the way that we live, work, and govern, and it is reshaping nearly every sector of our economy. The question before us is not whether to act, it is how to act wisely. So as policy makers, we have two responsibilities. One is to protect the public from real risks, but second, to ensure that American innovation continues to lead the world. Those goals are not mutually exclusive. In fact, the right policy framework can achieve both, so I appreciate you all being here today to help us strike that balance.” ###



May 21, 2025
Hearings

Chairman Bilirakis Delivers Opening Statement at Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Hearing on Seizing America's AI Opportunity

WASHINGTON, D.C . – Congressman Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade, delivered the following opening statement at today’s hearing titled AI Regulation and the Future of US Leadership. Subcommittee Chairman Bilirakis' opening statement as prepared for delivery: “Thank you to everyone, especially our witnesses, for joining us for today’s hearing on 'AI Regulation and the Future of U.S. Leadership.' “At the outset, I want to recognize Ranking Member Schakowsky, as this is our first Subcommittee hearing since she announced her retirement. She’s been a welcome partner over the last four-and-a-half years. Together, we were able to secure better safety precautions for women with the FAIR Crash Tests Act. During the pandemic, we worked tirelessly to support the travel and tourism industry at a time of unprecedented challenges. This bond culminated in the TICKET Act, which strengthens consumer protections in the ticketing marketplace. Congress and E&C won’t be the same without Ranking Member Schakowsky, but her legacy will be long remembered. “Since the public release of ChatGPT, AI has become a household name. AI products and services are being developed at breakneck speed, delivering new innovations to consumers. These technologies can revolutionize the economy, drive economic growth, and improve our way of life. Like every technology, however, AI can be weaponized when it is in the wrong hands. Thankfully, AI is already regulated by longstanding laws that protect consumers. Because of the great potential of these technologies, Congress must be careful when we impose additional obligations on AI developers and deployers. “Our task is to protect our citizens and ensure that we don’t cede U.S. AI leadership. Much of the AI marketplace is comprised of small start-ups looking to get a foothold in this revolutionary space. And heavy-handed regulations may ensure that the next great American company never makes it. If we fail in this task, we risk ceding American leadership in AI to China, which is close on our heels. “Other economies are also eager to write the global AI rulebook, often to their own detriment and the detriment of American leadership. The E.U. recently enacted its own 'AI Act.' While it is still being implemented, the E.U.’s complex law suffers from many of the innovation-chilling effects we saw with the GDPR. We must also keep a close watch on whether Europe uses the AI Act and other regulations to unfairly target American companies. “We’re here today to determine how Congress can support the growth of an industry that is key for American competitiveness and jobs, without losing the race to write the global AI rulebook. Our witnesses today will help us understand how we achieve that dream. “I want to thank the witnesses for being here and I look forward to your testimony.” ###



May 21, 2025
Press Release

Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations Holds Hearing on Critical Mineral Supply Chains

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Gary Palmer (AL-06), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, led a hearing titled Examining Ways to Enhance Our Critical Mineral Supply Chains . “Producing critical minerals here at home is essential for our economic and national security. We cannot allow the supply chains for critical minerals used in products like AI chips, cell phones, missiles, and fighter jets to be controlled by China, particularly the processing and refining phases of the supply chains,” said Chairman Palmer. “In today’s hearing, our witnesses were clear that Congress must take steps to build an environment enticing for domestic investment—including streamlining the permitting process—to help ensure that critical minerals can be mined, processed, and refined domestically.”  Watch the full hearing here .   Below are key excerpts from today’s hearing: Congressman Troy Balderson (OH-12): “The US has the second longest timeline for a mine to be approved, and we’ve heard anecdotes of projects waiting decades for approval to break ground or begin operations. Why is it that approvals of projects in the U.S., whether it be a mine or a processing, refining, or recycling facility for critical minerals take so long in the U.S?” Mr. Herrgott: “One of the main reasons is lack of coordination amongst the various agencies that are involved in the permitting process. Most mining projects will require a variety of permits. We’ve had member companies that have had mines that require over 90 permits.” Congressman Dan Crenshaw (TX-02): “Critical Minerals are the backbone of a modern economy and a modern military, from semiconductors to advanced weapons systems. Today, the U.S. imports between 50 percent and 82 percent of the critical minerals we need. So where are they coming from? It’s been mentioned plenty of times here – they’re coming from China. That’s not good. Our national security, our national industrial base, our economic future is dependent on supply chains we don’t control and from regimes we cannot trust. And why? Well, mostly because our laws and regulations have made it virtually impossible to open up new mines in this country, and even, even when we do mine, we still have to ship the raw materials overseas just to get them refined because we’ve offshored our processing capabilities.” Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14): “The U.S. once led the world in producing and refining rare earth elements but ceded that position to China in the 1980s. Today, China controls roughly 90 percent of global rare earth processing and has already demonstrated a willingness to restrict exports and thus, as one of you mentioned, affect the market. This leaves the U.S. dangerously exposed. If China were to halt exports entirely, think of that scenario. Where would we turn to secure the materials vital to our energy infrastructure and national security?” Ms. Hunter: “So, a total export ban would be devastating to the U.S. economy. We would need to rely on domestic sources if we can get them online, and then have them be processed into the final products that need to be qualified by manufacturers, and turn to allies as much as possible, countries with which we share national security priorities.” ###



May 21, 2025
Hearings

Chairman Palmer Delivers Opening Statement at Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations Hearing on Critical Minerals Supply Chain

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Congressman Gary Palmer (AL-06), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, delivered the following opening statement at today’s hearing titled Examining Ways to Enhance Our Critical Mineral Supply Chains . Subcommittee Chairman Palmer's opening statement as prepared for delivery: “Good morning, and welcome to today’s hearing entitled 'Examining Ways to Enhance Our Domestic Mineral Supply Chains.' “Today’s hearing addresses the crucial challenge that the U.S. is facing—how to decouple and derisk ourselves from China and other foreign adversaries and build critical mineral supply chains within the U.S. Our country has been blessed with abundant natural resources and the world-changing technology needed to harness those resources. Unfortunately, however, we have become over reliant on other nations to supply and process critical minerals. Today’s hearing is an opportunity to examine how to increase capacity and resilience in American critical mineral supply chains again. “Critical minerals are used in items we use every day like smart phones, computer hard drives, televisions, batteries, and lightbulbs. They are also used in elements of our electrical grid and have defense applications. “The U.S. used to be the leading producer and refiner of many critical minerals, including rare earth elements. By the late 1990s, however, most of this industry dissolved and moved overseas. According to a review in the United States Geological Survey Mineral Commodity Summaries 2024, the U.S. was 100 percent import reliant for 12 of the 50 critical minerals on the 2022 critical minerals list and more than 50 percent import reliant for an additional 29. “This predicament we find ourselves in is not a new problem, but a problem that has been many years in the making. So how did we get here? It is a combination of things—including burdensome permitting and other regulations, uncertainty in commodity pricing, market manipulation, and an increasingly litigious society. This has made our domestic environment unattractive to investors and companies as a result. For example, getting domestic processing and refining facilities up and running is an extremely long process—it can take 10 to 20 years for new processing plants and smelters to become operational. That is in addition to the lengthy mine development process in the U.S., which is the second-longest mine development timeline in the world. Because of this burdensome red tape, companies are not incentivized to invest domestically, so instead they invest abroad. “Moreover, even when U.S. companies operate mines in the U.S., the hesitancy to invest in domestic processing and refining facilities has put us in a position where our foreign adversaries monopolize other parts of the supply chain. For example, in 2019, one rare earth mine in the U.S. sent 98 percent of its raw materials to China because the U.S. lacked the capacity to process those minerals domestically. As a result, we must import our own product back from China after it is processed, but China’s recent export bans on several rare earth elements critical to the U.S. make this nearly impossible. “I cannot convey the seriousness of this issue enough. This is an economic issue and an issue of national security. We as a nation must ensure that we have access to these materials and the ability to process them without reliance on foreign adversaries, including China. “I want to applaud President Trump for declaring a national energy emergency on day one of his presidency, emphasizing that the U.S.’s identification, production, and refining of critical minerals are inadequate to meet domestic needs. Since then, President Trump has signed several executive orders related to critical minerals—including ordering immediate measures to increase American mineral production. We look forward to working with the Trump Administration on the mission to increase the capacity and resilience of domestic critical mineral supply chains. “I also want to thank our witnesses for joining us today to share their expertise and guide our discussion about the challenges in building domestic critical mineral supply chains and the opportunities we have to improve our domestic supply chains moving forward.” ###