FOR RELEASE: June 12, 2015
CONTACT: Stephanie Niedringhaus, 202-347-9797 x224, sniedringhaus@networklobby.org

Washington DC: Today, although there was some good news on the Hill, the House did not go far enough to promote trade justice. Three key trade bills (Trade Adjustment Assistance, Trade Promotion Authority and Customs Enforcement) were considered. We opposed all three, but the latter two passed. Their passage is disappointing because the TPA and Customs bills contain many unjust provisions that limit the ability of all to fully participate in trade discussions, and they perpetuate a focus on special interests over the common good.

However, we were very pleased when the TAA bill was defeated by an overwhelming margin because that defeat slows the passage of bad trade legislation. We also know, however, that this fight isn’t over, and we fully appreciate the hard work that will be required next week, when it comes up for another vote.

By slowing the process, the TAA vote provides more opportunities to find ways both to encourage trade and to support labor, environmental and consumer protections and human rights. Our country’s trade policy must focus on creating shared prosperity for workers as well as CEOs.

After today’s votes, Sister Simone Campbell commented, “It is too soon for either side in this difficult debate to either proclaim victory or defeat since we need to see what happens with next week’s new vote on TAA. Whatever happens, we are relieved that the House at least showed some sanity in voting down TAA today. And whatever happens in the end, NETWORK will maintain our focus on trade justice, holding all parties accountable so that people everywhere – including those in the most marginalized communities in the world – are protected. We are proud to stand with so many in the interfaith community who believe that trade agreements should always serve the common good.”

NETWORK’s opposition to the TAA bill is based on many factors, including that it has highly unacceptable provisions inserted purely for political reasons. We strongly opposed efforts to fund TAA provisions on the backs of Medicare recipients or those who rely on other programs that are part of the social safety net. Partisan gamesmanship is particularly insidious when it distorts the debate on a vital issue like trade justice. Any trade bill should be considered and voted on based on its own merits.

Our hope is that the House will again vote “no” next week when they reconsider the TAA bill so that this process will end and negotiations will begin again regarding trade priorities. That is precisely what is needed because there is much room for improvement. However, if the president and House Republican leadership prevail, we will press hard to make sure that everyone involved in the final trade agreement will be held accountable for its effects on vulnerable communities in the U.S. and around the world.

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