I look forward to working to advance an innovation agenda that creates jobs and puts consumers first.

I know that we'll be able to work together on a bipartisan basis to advance consumer interests over the course of the Congress.

I look forward to working with all the members of the subcommittee to continue exploring areas in the emerging digital economy.

The Telephone Consumer Protection Act is clearly outdated and needs to be reformed to accommodate current technological challenges.

Over the past 5 years, as the chairman said, we have been hearing complaints from our local telephone providers and constituents who have experienced call-quality and call-completion issues.

In case of emergency situations we need to ensure assistance is easily accessible and provide law enforcement the necessary information to locate individuals.

Last Congress, I introduced and the House passed H.R. 2318, which was the Federal Facility Accountability Act.

I introduced the VA Appeals Backlog Relief Act.

The sacrifices they make are incredible and it is incumbent upon Congress and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to ensure they receive the timely care and benefits they have earned and deserve upon their return home.

I would like to thank Representative Latta for introducing this piece of legislation and this subcommittee for holding this hearing today.

I urge every member of this subcommittee to cosponsor this important legislation.