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House Energy and Commerce Members Bob Latta (R-OH) and Peter Welch (D-VT) today announced the creation of a working group to examine the Internet of Things (IoT). The goals of the working group are to educate members on IoT, identify issues affecting deployment of these emerging technologies, explore the benefits and challenges of IoT for consumers and interested stakeholders, examine the possible role of the federal government in advancing IoT technologies, and explore the potential for public private partnerships in this sector. At the end of the 114th Congress, the members will release a report summarizing the activity of the working group. 

The House Energy and Commerce Committee has primary jurisdiction over the Internet of Things. Members of the working group include: Rep. John Shimkus (R-IL), Rep. Pete Olson (R-TX), Rep. Larry Bucshon, (R-IN), Rep. Renee Ellmers (R-NC), Rep. Leonard Lance (R-NJ), Rep. Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Rep. Richard Hudson (R-NC), Rep. Chris Collins (R-NY), Rep. Anna Eshoo (D-CA), Rep. Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Rep. David Loebsack (D-IA), Rep. John Yarmuth (D-KY), Rep. Gene Green (D-TX), Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY), Rep. Jerry McNerney (D-CA), and Rep. Bobby Rush (D-IL).

“The Internet of Things is transforming every sector of our economy by using the Internet and networked sensors to optimize and customize products to better meet consumer preferences and demands,” said Rep. Latta. “From medical devices and telehealth capabilities to vehicles that communicate with each other in real-time, Internet connectivity is being integrated into our daily lives and changing the way we participate in today’s world. This working group will recognize the opportunities these technologies present and explore ways to encourage development and innovation in this already thriving marketplace, while avoiding regulations that will undercut the industry.”

“The Internet of Things is changing our lives in countless ways, from increasing household energy efficiency to improving health outcomes to improving crop yields for farmers,” Rep. Welch said. “As devices become increasingly interconnected, it’s important that policymakers get up to speed on this emerging technology so that federal policy encourages innovation and consumer benefits, while protecting privacy and security. I look forward to working with Congressman Latta and the Members of this bipartisan working group to explore the unlimited potential of the Internet of Things.”