A CPA member wrote to Cong. Susan Davis to ask her to oppose Fast Track Trade Promotion Authority. He received this note in response.
Thank you for writing to me about your concemswith the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act (TPA) and the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP). This is an incredibly important issue, and I welcome the opportunity to respond.
I share your concerns about past trade agreements, as they have not always lived up to their full potential. That is why it is important that we improve upon the labor and enviromnental flaws of NAFTA and include provisions that bring the authority back to Congress if trade deals don’t match our priorities. I believe the bipartisan TP A bill drafted by Senators Wyden and Hatch is a significant improvement over past TP A bills, especially as it relates to Congressional oversight.
But there is still more that can be done, which is why I continue to work closely with my colleagues to improve the legislation that was recently introduced, but has yet to come to the floor for a vote. The US has a unique opportunity to set high standards for enviromnental and labor rights throughout Asia if this deal is done correctly. With this opportunity, however, comes an enormous responsibility, which is why I am taking my time to make sure we get the best deal we can.
Once again, thank you for contacting me. As your representative, I both need and value your perspective.
