Congresswoman Terri Sewell voted to give President Obama the authority he needs to negotiate an agreement that expands opportunities for fair trade, but says that Congress should have done more to reauthorize a key federal assistance program for displaced workers.

“I cast my vote today in support of President Obama and American workers. I believe that this President should be given the same authorities that every other President has been given to negotiate trade agreements that benefit American workers, businesses, and our economy. While I share many of the concerns of my friends in labor regarding trade, I am convinced that President Obama is committed to safeguarding our shared values and protecting American jobs. Ultimately, I believe that President Obama will protect the best interests of the American people, and the folks I represent in Alabama’s 7^th Congressional District. The bottom line is that President Obama has our back, and we should have his too. 

“I want to thank House leadership and the Obama administration for working with me to include critically important trade enforcement provisions in the trade package which will directly benefit the steel industry and the steel workers in my district. These measures will help protect American industries, particularly steel, from unfair trade practices and provide them with the necessary tools to seek timely and effective remedies.   While not a cure all, these stronger enforcement provisions are now an essential part of the framework for negotiating any trade agreement going forward.

“My vote for the Trade Promotional Authority (TPA) ensures that President Obama has the necessary tools and Congressional oversight to negotiate and present Congress with comprehensive trade agreements that increase American exports and benefit American workers.  In addition, my vote to reauthorize Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) is a vital lifeline for displaced workers that provides access to training, employment services, and relocation allowances. However, I am deeply disappointed that Congress failed to reauthorize TAA for American workers since globalization -- irrespective of trade agreements -- has led to the need for assistance for workers who lost their jobs through no fault of their own. It is my hope that my colleagues will reconsider the TAA vote because I strongly believe that TPA and TAA go hand in hand.

“To be clear, my votes today in no way undermine Congress’ role or oversight in these ongoing trade negotiations. Congress still retains the right to advise President Obama throughout the negotiations and reject any trade agreement that falls short of the criteria we have outlined. I will continue to rigorously review all trade proposals and I will oppose any trade agreement that is a bad deal for Alabama workers and businesses.”

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