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Opening Statements

Chairman Smith Opening Statement: Markup of Health Care and Social Security Bills

June 07, 2023 — Health

As prepared for delivery. "Too often, Washington gets in the way of Americans being able to take care of their families. If or when Congress is to be involved, it should be a partner with the American people, not a barrier. Today, the Committee is marking up legislation to cut red tape and support working families. "The first two bills will help Americans, including ...

Chairman Smith Remarks at Rules Committee: Fiscal Responsibility Act

May 30, 2023 — Opening Statements

As prepared for delivery. "Chairman Cole, Ranking Member McGovern, thank you for the opportunity to say a few words about the legislation before us that addresses the debt ceiling and begins to address the spending binge that got us here. "Let’s start by talking about why we are here a mere few days prior to potential default. It’s because the Biden Administration refused to come ...

Chairman Smith Opening Statement: Hearing on the Social Security Administration’s Role in Combatting Identity Fraud

May 24, 2023 — Opening Statements

As prepared for delivery. "Chairman Ferguson, Ranking Member Larson – thank you for the opportunity to share a few remarks on this important topic that affects every American. "We all know someone who has had to go through the ordeal of Identity Theft. One of the reasons I wanted to hold this hearing was after learning about everything our former colleague, Governor Kristi ...

Health Subcommittee Chairman Buchanan Opening Statement – Hearing on Why Health Care is Unaffordable: Anticompetitive and Consolidated Markets

May 17, 2023 — Health

As prepared for delivery. "Today’s hearing will focus on the health care marketplace and how it’s become more consolidated and less competitive in recent years, leading to higher prices and fewer options for patients.   "There are many factors that contribute to this problem, and we need to work together and find bipartisan solutions.   "Whether ...

Chairman Smith Opening Statement – Hearing on Health Care Price Transparency: A Patient’s Right to Know

May 16, 2023 — Health

As prepared for delivery. "Today, when a family faces a sudden illness, a chronic health issue, or a life-threatening accident their first thought is fear for the health of their loved one. Their second is to worry about how they will afford it. "When concerned about their health, patients don’t want to be contestants on a game show trying to guess which hospital door leads ...

Chairman Smith Opening Statement: Hearing on IRS Accountability & Transparency

April 27, 2023 — Opening Statements

As prepared for delivery. "Commissioner Werfel, thank you for being here today. "I first want to address an issue that has been widely reported. Last week, a whistleblower came forward with troubling claims about abuses of power. We are conducting a review of this matter and will go wherever the facts lead us. I expect full cooperation from the IRS, particularly with regard to ...

Social Security Subcommittee Chairman Ferguson – Hearing on Social Security Fundamentals: A Fact-Based Foundation

April 26, 2023 — Opening Statements

As prepared for delivery. "Good morning, the Subcommittee will come to order. "It is my privilege as Chairman of the Social Security Subcommittee to welcome everyone to our first hearing in the 118th Congress. "I’d like to thank Ranking Member Larson, Chairman Smith, and the Members of the Social Security Subcommittee for being here today. I’d also like to thank Mr. ...

Chairman Smith Opening Statement: Hearing on on Tax-Exempt Hospitals and the Community Benefit Standard

April 26, 2023 — Opening Statements

As prepared for delivery. "Thank you, Chairman Schweikert and Ranking Member Pascrell.   "Today the Oversight Subcommittee is meeting to examine the tax-exempt status of nonprofit hospitals to ensure they are operating in the best interests of patients, communities, and taxpayers. As the committee with oversight jurisdiction over the IRS, the tax code, tax administration, and health ...