05.05.15

Senate to Turn to Bipartisan Trade Legislation after Iran Bill, McConnell Says

WASHINGTON, D.C.U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell made the following remarks on the Senate floor regarding the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act:

“Once the budget is approved, we’ll continue our work on the bipartisan Iran bill.

“Then, it’s my hope to turn to another bipartisan measure: the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act.

“This bill would enhance Congress’ role in the trade process while ensuring Presidents of either party have the necessary tools to secure strong, enforceable trade agreements for American workers. Here’s why that’s important. Without this bipartisan legislation, American workers and farmers — including from my home state of Kentucky — will not be able to reap the rewards of selling more ‘Made in America’ goods to places like Europe and the Pacific.

“This is a bill we should all want to support. So it won’t surprise you to hear that this bill has substantial bipartisan support. It even passed the Finance Committee on an overwhelming vote of 20 to 6.

“But of course we’ve already heard of an attempt to stand in the way of the bipartisan effort to debate this legislation. We already heard of yet another effort to make a partisan stand against a bipartisan accomplishment that would help grow opportunities for our constituents.

“So yes.

“Some may oppose allowing American workers to compete and win in new markets…

“Some may not be all that excited about selling more products stamped ‘Made in America’ to place like Europe and the Pacific.

“But the reality is, the American people deserve more opportunities—not more special interest roadblocks.

“That’s why I plan, with the support of member of both parties, to turn to the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act once we finish the Iran bill.”

Related Issues: Iran, Trade Promotion Authority, Iran Nuclear Deal, Jobs