WASHINGTON - Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Sander Levin (D-MI) and Trade Subcommittee Ranking Member Jim McDermott (D-WA) issued the following statements on the Senate passage of an extension of Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) and the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) program:
Levin: “I was pleased to see the Senate pass an extension of Trade Adjustment Assistance and the Generalized System of Preferences program. The 2009 reforms to Trade Adjustment Assistance lapsed last February harming workers dislocated by trade all across the nation. And benefits under the Generalized System of Preferences expired last December, hurting U.S. manufacturers and the workers that they employ as well the developing countries that rely upon the program. The delay in renewing these programs, both of which have historically enjoyed broad bipartisan support, is unwarranted and they should not be held hostage any longer. I urge House Republicans to bring the bill to the Floor as soon as possible, before the free trade agreements are considered."
McDermott: “I welcome the Senate’s passage of legislation extending Trade Adjustment Assistance and the Generalized System of Preferences program. These programs have not been considered controversial in the past, nor should they be viewed that way now, and I hope that House Republicans will give the legislation a vote immediately after the district work period and before the free trade agreements come up for consideration. Trade Adjustment Assistance plays a critical role in helping workers dislocated by trade get back on their feet and obtain new good paying jobs. The Generalized System of Preferences program lowers costs to American manufacturers and consumers, and promotes poor countries’ efforts to develop and fight poverty. No more playing politics, no more delays, it is time to pass this important legislation."
