The California Chamber of Commerce today commended the U.S. Senate for passing Trade Promotion Authority.
The measure renews the authority for the President and/or U.S. Trade Representative to negotiate trade agreements.
“Trade is an important engine for California’s economic growth and jobs,” said CalChamber President Allan Zaremberg. “In fact, 4.7 million jobs in California are generated from our successful trade economy.”
Zaremberg continued, “The California business community particularly appreciates votes by members of our congressional delegation in support of TPA. Those who supported this important measure understand that California will reap big rewards.”
California, ranked as one of the nation’s top exporting states, currently has the seventh largest economy in the world, and a gross state product exceeding $2 trillion.
“Senate approval of TPA, with a vote by Senator Dianne Feinstein, will put our state one step closer to opening markets and broadening opportunities for California goods and firms so we can remain a leader in global trade,” said CalChamber Vice President of International Affairs Susanne T. Stirling.
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the TPA bill on June 18, 218-208, with the support of 16 members of the California congressional delegation. California congressional delegation members who voted in support of TPA on June 12 held firm in their support on June 18.
Among the “aye” votes on June 12 and June 18 were the following California representatives: Bera (D-Elk Grove), Calvert (R-Corona), Costa (D-Fresno), Davis (D-San Diego), Denham (R-Atwater), Farr (D-Carmel), Issa (R-Vista), Knight (R-Palmdale), LaMalfa (R-Richvale), McCarthy (R-Bakersfield), McClintock (R-Roseville), Nunes (R-Tulare), Peters (D-La Jolla), Royce (R-Fullerton), Valadao (R-Hanford), Walters (R-Irvine).
Trade promotion authority is vital for the President of the United States to negotiate new multilateral, bilateral and sectoral agreements that will continue to tear down barriers to trade and investment, expand markets for farmers and businesses and create higher-skilled, higher-paying jobs in California and the nation.
Staff Contact: Susanne T. Stirling
