Larson, Democrats Support "Right Track" Trade Policy

Washington – Today Rep. John B. Larson voiced his support for Rep. Sander Levin’s Right Track for TPP Act of 2015. This alternative to the Hatch-Wyden-Ryan Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) bill was introduced at Thursday’s Ways and Means Committee markup. It offers specific instructions on all of the outstanding issues in the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) negotiations and establishes an advisory group to certify the President has followed these instructions and adequately consulted with Congress.

“I applaud Ranking Member Levin for his work in crafting an alternative to the Hatch-Wyden TPA proposal,” said Larson. “Trade drives our economy, and the Democratic proposal would allow America to pursue new trade relationships while protecting our workers, safeguarding our currency, and allowing Congress to remove expedited consideration where necessary. While I understand the challenges faced by Senators Wyden and Hatch in crafting a Trade Promotion Authority, it was clear to me their efforts fell woefully short. Enactment at this time would not be appropriate.

Chairman Paul Ryan blocked voting on Right Track on the grounds that the Rules Committee has jurisdiction over the fast-track process. This objection was raised even though the Hatch-Wyden-Ryan TPA bill was marked up today in Ways and Means.

“It is extremely disappointing that Chairman Ryan used a procedural hurdle to block a vote on our ‘Right Track’ proposal,” said Larson. “Our constituents deserve to know where we stand on the issues that impact them, and we as the minority party deserve the opportunity to present our views for consideration, especially on issues as consequential as trade.”

Larson, along with Rep. Richard Neal, also introduced an amendment to require the White House to include strong, enforceable currency manipulation provisions in international trade agreements.

“I was proud to join my good friend Congressman Neal in introducing a reasonable amendment to address currency manipulation. Our amendment was identical to the one offered last night by Republican Senator Rob Portman, who—as the nation’s former top trade negotiator—has a certain expertise on these matters. Because the TPP includes nations that have previously manipulated their currencies, it’s vital we take steps to enforce the rules preventing unfair exchange practices. Unfortunately, Republicans on the committee chose to oppose these provisions,” Larson added.

A summary of the Right Track for TPP Act can be found here. The full text is available here.

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