Regulatory Reform - May 2017

Next month, the World Health Organization (WHO) will convene the eighth meeting of parties to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) in Geneva, Switzerland. The United States is sending a delegation to this international meeting; however, our nation’s representatives will only be able to participate under observer status since the Senate never ratified the FCTC. This does not mean Congress and the Trump administration should ignore what WHO is up to in the realm of tobacco regulation, particularly given America’s status as the largest contributor to the international body.

Today, executives of big tech platforms such as Facebook and Twitter faced heated questioning from members of Congress on both sides of the aisle. Democrats are upset with these companies over allegations the platforms are being abused to spread misinformation. Republicans are accusing these platforms of censoring certain speech. Unfortunately, while their complaints differ, both sides seem to be inching toward some sort of new regulatory scheme for this industry. This is to be expected from Democrats, but Republicans ought to know better. If they need some inspiration, they ought to look to what is happening at the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), particularly what Republican Commissioner Brendan Carr announced just yesterday.

Video of the Week: In this video, political columnist and Reason Magazine contributor Kristin Tate explains the myths behind efforts to regulate the use of plastic straws.

Video of the Week: In this video, the Federalist Society examines the negative incentives for regulators when implementing rules on the market.

Video of the Week: In this video, PolicyEd discusses how Congressional and Judicial decisions have granted federal agencies a considerable amount of power, but what steps can be taken to rein in the Administrative State.

Video of the Week: In this video, the Institute for Justice outlines some of the challenges many Americans face when confronted with occupational licensing.