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Vilsack tells business leaders need for TPA

U.S. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack has spoken to business leaders explaining the importance of Trade Promotion Authority, TPA, for the president, saying, “Because or negotiating partners and friends across the table know, today, that they can’t be assured that the agreement that Ambassador Froman can conclude will, in fact, NOT be subject to modification or amendment by Congress.  That’s why it’s important for us to have Trade Promotion Authority.”

In a conference call Friday, Vilsack told the business leaders TPA allows Congress to establish a framework for negotiations, transparency in reading the text that is being negotiated and allow for an up or down vote on any negotiated agreement. Vilsack said, “It is a proper role for Congress but it also allows us to assure our trading partners that what we’re negotiating is, in fact, what will be presented and not subject to amendment or modification.”

But those in Congress who oppose Trade Promotion Authority say it would give the president too much power and limit amendments and safeguards that Congress should be able to make.

Congress returns from Easter break on April 13th.