|
Billy Tauzin was appointed as our Lead Independent Director in January 2005. In December 2004, Congressman Tauzin was named President and Chief Executive Officer of the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, a trade group that serves as one of the pharmaceutical industry's top lobbying groups. He served 12 terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Louisiana's 3rd Congressional District since being first sworn in 1980. From January 2001 through December 2004, Congressman Tauzin served as Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. He also served as a senior member of the House Resources Committee and Deputy Majority Whip. Prior to being a member of Congress, Congressman Tauzin was a member of the Louisiana State Legislature, where he served as Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee and Chief Administration Floor Leader. Congressman Tauzin received a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Nicholls State University in 1964 and a Juris Doctorate from Louisiana State University in 1967. | 