The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation convened on September 21, 2023, for a nominations hearing focused on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The meeting primarily addressed concerns regarding employee attendance and accountability within the FTC, particularly under the leadership of Chair Lina Khan.

The hearing began with a discussion on the current work-from-home policies at the FTC. A senator expressed concern that over 80% of FTC employees were reportedly working in the office two days a week or less. The senator emphasized that this attendance rate was unacceptable, especially when compared to the expectations placed on workers in the private sector and other industries. The senator questioned whether this arrangement honored the commitment to the American people, given that federal employees are funded by taxpayers.

In response, the FTC commissioner defended the agency's policies, stating that the distinction between working from home and physically showing up in the office was important. The commissioner asserted that the staff was fulfilling their duties and that the agency was following guidance from the Office of Personnel Management regarding remote work.

The conversation then shifted to issues of oversight and accountability within the FTC. The senator raised concerns about unanswered oversight letters sent to the agency, suggesting a lack of responsiveness from the chair's office. The commissioner clarified that oversight letters were directed to the chair, who had not been present to respond.

Further discussions highlighted a specific incident involving Chair Khan's alleged disregard for the advice of the designated agency ethics official regarding recusal from certain cases. The senator questioned the truthfulness of Chair Khan's testimony before Congress, suggesting that she had not fully acknowledged the recommendations made by the ethics official. The commissioner refrained from commenting on the chair's testimony, stating that it was not appropriate to opine on another's statements.

The hearing concluded without a clear resolution on the issues raised, leaving significant questions about the FTC's operational transparency and adherence to ethical guidelines. The committee's ongoing scrutiny of the agency's practices indicates a continued focus on accountability and the effectiveness of federal oversight.