Dean Heller

So if I can just get that commitment from you that we can address these issues of transportation, transparency.

I think transparency in this process, critically important for people in the State of Nevada.

I think there is a role for Government to play in that to make sure that there is some level of certainty and liquidity out there so that these home loans can be made.

I would argue that the economic downturn probably had more to do with housing, at least in our communities, than any other issue.

You are absolutely right, Senator. And that regulation, the experience of Nevada, New Jersey, are pivotal in having people understand why this has to be regulated.

But I want to start with you, Mr. Blum. You did a pretty good job in your earlier testimony describing probably the history of gaming in Nevada.

Preventing these kind of problems is critical, and I think it is a priority of this Congress.

I believe there is a way to do this, and I think the technology is there.

I always argued at that time that maybe a state like New Jersey or a state like Nevada ought to be doing the policing of this Internet effort.

I certainly do appreciate your testimony and the help it will be to formulate this piece of legislation.

I am sure that many parents had the same problem, same issues, and for that reason, Congress made certain steps, certain procedures, to make--to bring this to an end.

By reinstating the more than 50-year interpretation of the Wire Act and strengthening UIGEA, you can protect our children and families from the erosion of safeguards Congress has previously established.

Good morning, Chairman. Thank you very much for holding this hearing.

This is an important subject, and my phone has rung off the hook about this particular issue.

I do not think today that flies, but I thought that would have been two states anyway that were prepared.

A few years ago--actually, more than a few years ago when I was Secretary of State, I got a phone call from a colleague of mine on the East Coast, another secretary of state.

Madam Chairwoman, thank you.

I guess the bottom line with this particular hearing is, should the FTC and the FCC be given enforcement powers or additional enforcement powers, or can this be solved through the private industry itself?

Thank you for your time. I want to thank both witnesses for being here.

I guess my question to you is, is there any evidence or allegations that these common carriers are the source of these calls?

Do you have a feel for it?

OK. OK. I will probably ask the next panel the same question.

Congress has been looking for ways to limit unsolicited telephone calls since 1991 when the Telephone Consumer Protection Act was passed.

Thank you. And good morning. Chairman McCaskill, thanks for holding this hearing.

I would be surprised if there is anybody here in this room that hasn't at one time or another been subject to a telemarketing call.