CONTACTS: Eric Wohlschlegel/John Reid
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WASHINGTON, DC-The United States Chamber of Commerce today praised the continuing efforts of House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Charles Rangel, Ranking Member Jim McCrery, and U.S. Trade Representative Susan Schwab to reach an agreement to secure support for Congressional approval of pending trade agreements.

 

"A deal on trade and labor is within reach," said Bruce Josten, Chamber executive vice president for government affairs.  "Just a few years ago, many people would have rejected the notion that we should discuss International Labor Organization principles in the context of international trade.  Today, they are viewed as a reasonable reference point in our free trade agreements.
 
"Legitimate concerns have been expressed about how addressing labor issues in trade agreements could affect U.S. federal and state labor laws. However, we hope this issue can be addressed to mutual satisfaction.

 

"Likewise, the business community supports the notion that we need to improve and expand Trade Adjustment Assistance. The vast majority of Americans benefit from trade, but the few who feel adverse effects deserve a helping hand.

 

"In addition, it's critical that our trade agreements continue to protect intellectual property, which is the lifeblood of the 21st century economy," said Josten.  "We are working to make the case in the Congress that America's innovative industries should continue to receive the highest level of protection in our trade agreements."

 

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation, representing more than 3 million businesses and organizations of every size, sector, and region.

 

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