Dear Mrs. Oberheide: Thank you for your letter regarding Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations and Trade Promotion Authority (TPA). I appreciate hearing from you. The United States is currently involved in TPP negotiations with the leaders of the TPP countries—Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam. The goal of the TPP is to enhance trade and investment among the TPP partner countries, promote innovation and economic growth and development, and support the creation and retention of jobs. Congress has an oversight role with regard to U.S. participation in the TPP. For TPP agreements to apply in the United States, Congress must approve implementing legislation. Under the TPA, sometimes referred to as fast track, Congress sets forth negotiation goals and procedures for trade agreements and authorizes the President to enter into reciprocal trade agreements. TPA also allows for expedited legislative procedures by limiting debate, prohibiting amendments, and requiring an up-or-down vote. The expedited process is contingent on the President observing certain negotiation rules. TPA expired in 2007, but the requirements continue to be implemented. Proponents of TPA argue the law helps the negotiation credibility of the executive branch by assuring parties who sign onto the agreement that the deal will not be changed during the legislative process. However, opponents worry TPA goes too far in limiting Congress’s Constitutional right to regulate foreign commerce. I have been closely following progress on TPP negotiations and have met with U.S. Trade Representative Ron Kirk to discuss the issues involved. As the TPP and TPA negotiations continue, I will keep your concerns in mind. Thank you again for your letter. Please feel free to keep in touch. Sincerely, Richard J. Durbin United States Senator RJD/es
Posted on: Wed, 21 Aug 2013 21:16:18 +0000
Trending Topics
Recently Viewed Topics
© 2015