As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Congressman Richard Neal expects to fully discuss a trade promotion authority recently introduced in Congress.The so-called trade promotion or fast track authority would give President Obama the ability finish negotiating a Pacific trade deal with about 10 countries. Democratic Congressman Paul Tonko of New York says the administration shouldn’t circumvent Congress’ role. Not yet choosing a side, Democratic Congressman Neal expects to review the agreement reached by Republican leaders and Democratic Senator Ron Wyden.
“The question for everybody is, full acknowledgment that Senator Wyden has improved the TPA, the question is has he improved it enough,” said Neal.
Fearing a loss of U.S. jobs, labor unions have urged Congress to oppose the agreement.