|
|
|
![Press Releases Press Releases](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/headers/pressreleases.gif) ![Press Releases Press Releases](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/headers/pressreleases.jpg) |
For Immediate Release
10/09/07
Contact: |
Joe Brenckle - Republican Press Office 202-224-3991
Brian Eaton w/Stevens 202-224-0445
|
|
![Email This Email This](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/icons/emailthis.gif)
![Print This Print This](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/icons/printthis.gif)
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/spacer.gif) |
Op-Ed: Protecting Our Children Must Be a Top Priority
|
|
Last month, a 15-year-old from Juneau made national headlines after she boarded an airplane and flew to Seattle without her parents’ knowledge or permission. Of additional concern, she was attempting to meet someone she had encountered on the Internet. While this particular incident ended without injury, it exposed a serious loophole for air travelers between the ages of 13 and 17, and served as a reminder of the potential dangers children face on the Internet.
As a father of six, and a grandfather of eleven, I was shocked to hear about this event. As a U.S. Senator, I recognize that industry and Congress can and should work together to limit similar events from happening in the future. I plan to work with my colleagues on the Senate Commerce Committee to develop effective policies to increase child safety.
Such solutions should start with consistent policies for air carriers and their passengers, regardless of age. Many airlines require passengers between the ages of 5 and 12 to participate in the “Unaccompanied Minor Service” program if they are traveling without a parent or guardian. But, no such requirements prevent passengers between the ages of 13 and 17 from boarding a plane without identification or parental permission. In addition, the Transportation Security Administration only requires identification for passengers who are 18 years of age and older. Younger passengers need no more than a boarding pass to go through screening to board a plane.
In relation to a recent hearing held by the Senate Commerce Committee, I submitted a question to the Department of Transportation and the airline representatives about their policies on teenage air travel. I plan to compare the policies regarding under age children of different airlines, figure out what works, and encourage effective voluntary standards across the industry.
The August incident also highlights the issue of improved Internet safety for children. According to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, one in seven children between the ages of 10 and 17 has received a sexual solicitation or approach over the Internet. Recent news accounts report that two men, in separate occurrences, were arrested in the Lower 48 while traveling to Alaska to meet, in person, children they had initially met online.
To address this alarming trend, the Senate Commerce Committee recently passed S. 1965, “Protecting Children in the 21st Century Act,” a bipartisan bill that I introduced with Commerce Committee Chairman Daniel Inouye (D-Hawaii). The legislation would require any school which receives federal funding to offer Internet safety education on issues such as social networking, chat rooms, and cyberbullying. The bill also requires the creation of a working group, composed of representatives from federal agencies and others, to identify and encourage technologies and initiatives which could help parents shield their children from unwanted contact or content. The Internet is a valuable resource for a child’s education. But, it is vital that we educate our children about how to use the Internet safely.
By developing a multi-layered approach to child safety – online and offline, in both the real and virtual worlds – children can be safe as they learn and grow.
|
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/spacer.gif) |
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
30th - |
Inouye Coral Reef Conservation Bill Approved by Senate Commerce Committee
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – Looking to stem the threats to our nation’s coral reefs, the Senate Commerce Committee today unanimously approved S. 1580, the Coral Reef Conservation Amendments Act of 2007, which reauthorizes and strengthens the Coral Reef Conservation Act of 2000 and further improves research and management of our nation’s corals.
“The preservation of our coral re...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
30th - |
Inouye Praises Senate Approval of Amtrak Bill
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D-Hawaii), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement upon full Senate passage of S. 294, the Passenger Rail Investment and Improvement Act of 2007:
“I fully support S. 294, a bill that will finally reauthorize Amtrak and make important changes to secure a prosperous future for...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
30th - |
Congress Extends Internet Tax Ban for 7 Years
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House of Representatives today joined the United States Senate in approving an extension of the Internet tax moratorium for seven years. The moratorium to protect consumers was established as part of the Internet Tax Freedom Act in 1998. Congress has twice extended the moratorium to prohibit these taxes on consumer Internet access. The Act prevents states and locali...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
26th - |
Op-Ed -- Congress must keep Internet access tax-free
- Its imperative that Congress keep Internet access tax-free
COMPASS: POINTS OF VIEW FROM THE COMMUNITY
By SEN. TED STEVENS
(Published: October 26, 2007)
The Internet has provided a powerful economic boost to our nation, especially in rural areas. It has become an important everyday tool for millions of Americans, a valuable educational and medical resource, and an essentia...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
23rd - |
Commerce Committee Announces Witnesses for Hearing on Sweatshop Conditions in Chinese Toy Industry
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announced today the witnesses scheduled to appear before an Interstate Commerce, Trade, and Tourism Subcommittee hearing on Sweatshop Conditions in the Chinese Toy Industry. The witnesses are listed below.
At this hearing, the subcommittee will examine sweatshop conditions in Chinese factories where toys and...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
19th - |
Commerce Committee to Examine STB’s Commercial Regulation of Railroads
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announces a Surface Transportation and Merchant Marine Infrastructure, Safety, and Security Subcommittee Oversight Hearing on the Surface Transportation Board and Regulation Related to Railroads.
This hearing will examine the Surface Transportation Board’s (STB) recent and ongoing efforts related to t...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
18th - |
Commerce Subcommittee to Examine Sweatshop Conditions in Chinese Toy Industry
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announced today an Interstate Commerce, Trade, and Tourism Subcommittee hearing on Sweatshop Conditions in the Chinese Toy Industry.
At this hearing, the subcommittee will examine sweatshop conditions in Chinese factories where toys and other children’s products are manufactured.
Sweatshop Condit...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
18th - |
Inouye Calls for Modernization of U.S. Transportation System, Improved Safety Standards
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Daniel K. Inouye (D-Hawaii), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, issued the following statement today at an Oversight Hearing on the U.S. Department of Transportation:
“Transportation fuels our economy and improves the quality of our lives. It permits industry to move goods and people to travel both across our natio...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
16th - |
DOT Secretary, IG to Testify Before Senate Commerce Committee
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announced today that the Honorable Mary E. Peters, Secretary of Transportation for the U.S. Department of Transportation and Mr. Calvin L. Scovel III, Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Transportation will testify at a Full Committee Oversight Hearing on the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The ...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
16th - |
Senate Commerce Announces Witnesses for Science Parks Hearing
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation released a witness list today for a Science, Technology, and Innovation Subcommittee hearing on Science Parks: Bolstering U.S. Competitiveness. The witnesses are listed below.
At this hearing, the Committee will explore the effects science parks can have on innovation and competitiveness including encouragi...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
15th - |
Commerce Committee to Examine the Future of Radio
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announces a Full Committee hearing on the Future of Radio.
At this hearing, Committee Members will assess the state of innovation and competition in the radio market.
The Future of Radio
Full Committee
Date: Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Room 253, Russell Senate Office B...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
15th - |
Witnesses Announced for TSA Oversight Hearing
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announced today the witnesses for a Full Committee Oversight Hearing on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) – Examining the TSA’s Efforts and Progress on H.R. 1, “Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007.” The witnesses are listed below.
The Commer...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
12th - |
Senate Commerce to Hear from State Gov., Industry, Consumer Advocates on Consumer Wireless Issues
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announced today the witnesses scheduled to attend a Full Committee hearing on Consumer Wireless Issues. The witnesses are listed below.
At this hearing, the Committee will hear testimony regarding consumer practices of the wireless industry.
Consumer Wireless Issues
Full Committee
Date: Wednesday, Oc...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
12th - |
FCC’s Adelstein, NTIA’s Kneuer Join Industry Reps to Testify Before Senate Commerce Committee
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation released today the witness list for the Full Committee hearing on The Digital Television Transition: Government and Industry Perspectives. The witnesses are listed below.
At this hearing, the Committee will explore the status of the digital television transition including consumer education efforts, the op...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_cur.gif) |
9th - |
current Press Release |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
3rd - |
Commerce Committee to Examine TSA Efforts to Meet 9/11 Recommendations
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announces a Full Committee Oversight Hearing on the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) – Examining the TSA’s Efforts and Progress on H.R. 1, “Implementing Recommendations of the 9/11 Commission Act of 2007.”
The Commerce Committee will review the efforts of the Transportatio...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
3rd - |
DOT Oversight Focus of Upcoming Commerce Hearing
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announces a Full Committee Oversight Hearing on the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The hearing will provide general oversight on current regulatory and programmatic activities at the U.S. Department of Transportation. The Commerce Committee has general oversight jurisdiction over the entire Department an...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
3rd - |
Commerce Committee to Evaluate Consumer Wireless Issues
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announces a Full Committee hearing on Consumer Wireless Issues.
At this hearing, the Committee will hear testimony regarding consumer practices of the wireless industry.
Consumer Wireless Issues
Full Committee
Date: Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Time: 10:00 a.m.
Location: Room 253, Russell Senate O...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
3rd - |
Commerce Committee Announces Witnesses for Port Security Hearing
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation announced today the witnesses for a hearing on the Security of Our Nation’s Seaports. The witnesses are listed below.
The hearing will review the Department of Homeland Securitys implementation and administration of several port and cargo security programs authorized in the SAFE Port Act, the Maritime...
|
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/bullets/page_blue.gif) |
2nd - |
CPSC Commissioners, Consumer Advocates among Witnesses to Address Senate Panel
- WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Consumer Affairs, Insurance, and Automotive Safety Subcommittee announced today the witnesses for its legislative hearing on S. 2045, the Consumer Product Safety Commission Reform Act of 2007. The witnesses are listed below.
At this hearing, the Committee will explore the state of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, examine reforms that are necessary to make th...
|
|
Audio Clip | Video Clip
|
![](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/eot2008/20090826082741im_/http://commerce.senate.gov/public/_images/spacer.gif) |
|
|
|
|
|