Washington, D.C. –Today, Congresswoman Terri A. Sewell (AL-47) released the following statement regarding H.R. 2832, the Trade Adjustment Assistance Extension Act of 2011:

“Today, I voted in favor of H.R. 2832, the Trade Adjustment Assistance Extension Act of 2011. This bill will ensure America’s workforce has access to the resources they need to obtain a good paying job, provide for their families and remain competitive in a 21st Century global economy.

I am pleased that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle came together and voted to ensure that this important federal program continues to provide assistance for hardworking Americans who lost their job as a result of unbalanced trade policies and through no fault of their own.

By extending the Trade Adjustment Assistance program (TAA), we are helping get workers in the 7th Congressional District, the State of Alabama and this nation back on their feet, by getting them retrained and reemployed. We are also ensuring the adaptability, resiliency and efficiency of the American workforce.

Rebuilding the U.S. economy means more than just opening up new channels for trade. The TAA is a critical federal program which should have never been allowed to expire, and moving forward, the extension will guarantee that unemployed American workers have access to the training and resources they need to obtain new jobs and contribute to our economic growth and recovery.”

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Contact:  Allison Abney;  (202) 225-2665;  Allison.abney@mail.house.gov