Debbie Dingell: “I support H.R. 5163, the ``Norman Y. Mineta Research and Special Programs Reorganization Act.'' I thank my good friend…”

“I support H.R. 5163, the ``Norman Y. Mineta Research and Special Programs Reorganization Act.'' I thank my good friend Secretary Mineta for his leadership on this issue, and I thank Chairman Young and Ranking Member Oberstar for working cooperatively with Committee on Energy and Commerce Chairman Barton and me to ensure an acceptable outcome for all. The legislation we consider today accomplishes many worthy objectives. My remarks, however, will focus on one particular provision with respect to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The NHTSA administers many programs, including research and development, that improve the safety and fuel economy of motor vehicles in the United States. The authors of this legislation worked with Chairman Barton and me to ensure that these programs were not affected by the legislation before us today. Specifically, section 4(b) of the bill clearly states that the newly formed Research and Innovative Technology Administration will have no authority over the programs, activities, standards, and regulations of NHTSA over which the Committee on Energy and Commerce has jurisdiction, including motor vehicle safety and fuel economy. I urge all my colleagues to support this legislation.”