FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, June 03, 2002
EIA’s McCurdy Thanks Senate for Passing TPA, Urges Removal of Protectionist Language
Arlington, Va. – Dave McCurdy, president of the Electronic Industries Alliance, commended members of the U.S. Senate who recognized the importance of free trade to the technology industry and thanked them for passing Trade Promotion Authority.
In a letter sent to members of the U.S. Senate who recently voted in favor of TPA, McCurdy also voiced EIA’s serious concerns with protectionist measures such as the Dayton-Craig amendment and urged their removal in conference.
Text of the letter appears below:
“I am writing to express my sincere thanks for your vote in support of H.R. 3009, the “Trade Act of 2002.” Last week’s historic vote will certainly be remembered as one of the most important of the 107th Congress.
“Passage of Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) is the most urgent priority of the high-tech community this year. New trade agreements present enormous opportunities for the electronics industry and, more generally, for companies and workers around the world. U.S. technology companies often face a wide range of tariff and non-tariff barriers that impede their ability to do business overseas. Whereas the U.S. market is already open to most imports, new trade agreements are essential to level the playing field and provide greater access to U.S. exports.
“Nevertheless, EIA has serious concerns with protectionist aspects of the Senate-passed bill. Specifically, the requirement in the “Dayton-Craig” amendment to exempt certain trade remedy provisions of a trade agreement from congressional fast track procedures would undermine the authority of the President during future trade negotiations. We are relying on the leadership of the White House and the Managers from the House and Senate to ensure that this amendment is removed.
“Once again, I want to thank you for your vote last Thursday and urge your continued support for this vital legislation. I look forward to working with you in the weeks ahead to achieve final passage.”
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