Hanabusa issues press release on Fast Track of TPP

Subject: FW: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Hanabusa will oppose “Fast Track” trade legislation

ICYMI.

From: Rapoza, Richard
Sent: Friday, January 10, 2014 3:33 PM
Subject: FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Hanabusa will oppose “Fast Track” trade legislation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hawaii - Richard Rapoza – (808) 392-0780

DC - Ashley Nagaoka Boylan – (808) 238-1724

January 10, 2014

HANABUSA WILL OPPOSE “FAST TRACK” TRADE LEGISLATION

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Representative Colleen Hanabusa (HI-01) today said that she intends to vote against the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities Act of 2014, which would provide only limited, expedited procedures under which Congress could consider trade agreements.

“During my time in Congress, I have consistently advocated for better engagement with rest of the world and maintained that negotiating fair trade agreements with our international partners is essential in the 21st Century,” Hanabusa said.  “However, I cannot support a measure that severely curtails Congressional review and amendment of proposed agreements, and would only allow for up or down votes for as long as the next seven years.

“Trade deals impact more than just the exports they increase. They can affect American jobs, public health, workers’ rights, and our natural environment including the global climate.  Any negotiation of this magnitude must give Congress, the representatives of the people, a significant voice in crafting agreements that affect so many lives.  The scope of these agreements and the change that comes with increased globalization make thorough and meaningful consideration essential.

“I look forward to reviewing further efforts to construct a responsible trade agenda, and will carefully review any prospects of increasing trade and investment in the State of Hawaii.”

The Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities Act of 2014 was introduced Thursday by Representative Dave Camp, Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee.  Under the bill, Congress would receive trade agreements for a straight up-or-down vote, with limited debate and no opportunity for amendments.

Ranking Member Sander Levin declined to endorse the bill and said that he has started working on an alternative version of a trade negotiating authority bill.

In November 2013, Hanabusa, along with 150 other Members of Congress, sent a letter to President Obama opposing use of outdated “Fast Track” procedures.