Pathetic response to me, from Senator Schumer on the TPP: Dear Ms. Nola: Thank you for writing to voice your concerns over the Trans-Pacific Partnership negotiations. Like you, I believe free trade agreements must be negotiated to reflect the priorities of American jobs and our long term economic prosperity. As you know, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) has the potential to increase exports from the United States and, in turn, create jobs and grow our economy. The countries involved in the TPP negotiations represent some of the fastest growing economies in the world and over 40% of world trade. Many New York industries would benefit from lowered trade barriers in these nations. However, when considering any trade deal, it is equally important that any trade agreement is fair and right for America. First and foremost, any trade agreement must adequately protect American workers and industry from competing with unfair and unjust practices in foreign countries. That is why I drafted a letter, which was signed by 30 Senators, to urge the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to protect the dairy industry from uncompetitive practices in Canada and New Zealand. Congress must ensure that any trade agreements include provision to combat unfair practices and maintain strong intellectual property rights, labor rights, anti-currency manipulation, and environmental standards. I have long championed legislation to ensure both free and fair trade. I worked with a bipartisan group of my colleagues to introduce the Currency Exchange Rate Oversight Reform Act (S.1114), which would enhance oversight of currency exchange rates, crack down on unfair trade practices and level the playing field for New York manufacturers. Last Congress, I co-sponsored the Enforcing Orders and Reducing Customs Evasion Act (S.1133), which would create the enforcement necessary at Customs and Border Protection to combat trade cheats and provide a fair playing field for US manufacturers. As you may know, texts of trade agreements are traditionally classified during live negotiations. The text of the agreement has not been finalized and Members of Congress have not yet seen draft texts. However, the USTR will release summaries of policies discussed during negotiations prior to the public comment period. When those summaries are released, I will review them closely to determine the agreement’s effects on New York jobs and industries. The office of the United States Trade Representative intends to complete negotiations this year. As a member of the Committee on Finance, with jurisdiction over trade agreements, I will closely examine any trade agreements impact on New York businesses and families. Again, thank you for contacting me regarding this important issue. Please feel free to contact me in the future if I can be of further assistance on this or any other matter. Sincerely, Charles E. Schumer United States Senator
Posted on: Thu, 31 Oct 2013 01:03:27 +0000
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