Assignment positions Udall to fight for issues critical to N.M. communities: Trade, broadband Internet, space, technology transfer, consumer safety
WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Senator Tom Udall announced that beginning in January 2015 (the 114th Congress), he will return to the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee. Udall will also serve on the Senate Appropriations, Foreign Relations, Indian Affairs, and Rules committees. Udall previously served on the Commerce Committee from 2009-2012.
"Returning to the Commerce Committee, in combination with my other committee assignments, puts me in an exciting position to fight for issues that will help create jobs and build New Mexico's economy - from trade and transportation to technology and the rapidly evolving space industry.
"I believe New Mexico has all the building blocks for a strong high-tech sector, including our universities and research facilities, entrepreneurs and established companies that want to commercialize new technologies. Now is the time to encourage innovation and investments that will benefit our state and national economy for years to come.
"We are also at a critical point in the expansion of broadband Internet, which is vital for small business, education and health care, particularly in rural communities. I intend to use my position to step up the fight to ensure every community in New Mexico has high-speed Internet access.
"Finally, since my days as New Mexico's Attorney General, I have worked to strengthen consumer protection. I'm proud of my contributions to keep drunk drivers from getting behind the wheel, improve youth sports safety, prevent cell phone 'bill shock,' and protect consumers from fraud, and the Commerce Committee gives me a position to fight to ensure New Mexicans have the tools they need to protect themselves and their families."
The Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee has broad jurisdiction over federal agencies and laws that govern aviation, communications, consumer affairs, highway and pipeline safety, railroads, science, and space policies.