Regulatory Reform Subcommittee to Hold Oversight Hearing on Antitrust Enforcement Agencies
Washington, D.C.— On May 15, 2015 at 9:00 a.m., the Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law will hold a hearing to conduct oversight of the antitrust enforcement agencies.
The Sherman Act, the Clayton Act, and the Federal Trade Commission Act (FTC Act) are the three principal laws that govern the antitrust laws in the United States. The Department of Justice and the Federal Trade Commission work together to enforce these laws. The Subcommittee will gain valuable insight regarding enforcement of antitrust laws; areas of antitrust enforcement that are in need of legislative attention; and the interaction between the two antitrust enforcement agencies.
Witnesses for Friday’s hearing are:
- Assistant Attorney General William J. Baer, Antitrust Division, Department of Justice
- Chairwoman Edith Ramirez, Federal Trade Commission
House Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law Subcommittee Chairman Tom Marino (R-Pa.) issued the statements below on this hearing:
Chairman Goodlatte: “Fairness in the American marketplace is key for economic prosperity and success for businesses large and small. Many years ago, the antitrust laws were enacted in order to rein in the powerful monopolies and trusts that were hampering economic growth in this country. Today, antitrust issues still play a major role in our economy, and our government agencies must fairly and predictably administer the antitrust laws in order to promote a competitive American marketplace. Tomorrow’s subcommittee hearing will continue the Committee’s long and robust oversight record and help to ensure that our antitrust enforcement agencies are promoting a free and competitive marketplace.”
Congressman Marino: “America’s regulatory framework, especially as it pertains to the enforcement of antitrust laws, requires regular review from Congress to ensure our marketplace maintains the best possible balance between competition and fairness. Tomorrow, our subcommittee begins that review process with testimony from agency officials charged with enforcing these important laws. From the hearing we will gain insight about what needs smart legislative refinement and what requires better enforcement.”
The hearing will take place in 2141 Rayburn House Office Building and will be webcast live at /.