FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
- May 12, 2005 -

COMMISSIONERS SELIG, TAGLIABUE, STERN AND OTHERS TO TESTIFY ON STEARNS' STEROIDS IN SPORTS LEGISLATION

LEADERS OF THE PLAYERS' ASSOCIATIONS ALSO TESTIFYING AT HEARING ON MAY 18TH AND MAY 19TH

WASHINGTON, MAY 12, 2005 - "In my hearing on steroid in sports, we heard of various efforts by sports groups to curb steroid use, the serious health effects of these drugs, and the tragic consequences of steroids use by young people," said Rep. Cliff Stearns (R-FL), Chairman of the Commerce, Trade & Consumer Protection Subcommittee.  "It is clear that legislation is needed to establish uniform standards and heavier penalties for steroid use.  Professional sports expect world-class performances from their players, and these athletes should be subject to world-class testing standards.  I look forward to hearing testimony on my bill from the Commissioners of the professional sports leagues as well as the leaders of the players' unions."

The hearing on H.R. 1862, the Drug Free Sports Act, will be held on Wednesday, May 18th, and on Thursday, May 19th, starting at 10:00 a.m. in room 2123 RHOB.  The following witnesses will testify on the legislation:

May 18th
Panel I
Mr. Bud Selig, Commissioner, Major League Baseball;
Mr. Don Fehr, Executive Director, Major League Baseball Players' Association;
Mr. Gary Bettman, Commissioner, National Hockey League;
Mr. Don Garbe, Commissioner, Major League Soccer; and
Mr. Frank Shorter, Gold Medal Olympian and Former Chairman of U.S. Anti-Doping Agency.

Panel II
Mr. David Stern, Commissioner, National Basketball Association; and
Mr. Billy Hunter, Executive Director, National Basketball Players' Association.

May 19th
Mr. Paul Tagliabue, Commissioner, National Football League; and
(invited) Mr. Gene Upshaw, National Football League Players' Association.

For Further Information Please Contact Paul Flusche at 202-225-5744 or Email.