Quigley Statement on Passage of Trade Promotion Authority

WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement in response to the passage of Trade Promotion Authority (TPA):

"Expanding trade is essential if we want to remain a leader in the global economy and create new high-quality American jobs. With Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), the President can negotiate the most progressive, high-standard trade framework in American history and finally correct the mistakes made in previous trade deals like NAFTA. This TPA legislation demands that our trading partners adopt strong, enforceable environmental and labor protections in any future trade agreements, ensuring that American workers and American businesses are competing on a fair and level playing field, while at the same time raising standards around the world. This legislation also requires increased transparency in trade negotiations and demands that the public and Congress play a key role.

"If we don't take the lead on negotiating trade agreements in the Asia-Pacific region, the Chinese will. And China won't require the same high levels of environmental protections and labor standards that we do. Without U.S. leadership in the region, we will likely see irreversible damage to our environment and American workers placed at an even greater disadvantage.

"While increased exports support higher paying and more economically stable jobs, the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) program creates a safety net for dislocated American workers by providing job training services, income support, and health benefits. Thousands of workers currently rely on TAA, and the clock is ticking for Congress to reauthorize this vital safety net. I urge Congress to pass a strong TAA reauthorization bill and provide much needed support to American workers and their families."