CEA: House Action on Trade Incomplete and Disappointing

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The following statement is attributed to Gary Shapiro, president and CEO, Consumer Electronics Association (CEA), in response to the House’s failure to pass Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) package legislation today:

“We are pleased the House passed Trade Promotion Authority, as the U.S. must be able to negotiate trade agreements in order to stay competitive in the world market. We are disappointed by the House’s failure to pass Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) legislation, as it was part of the package for TPA legislation. We are hopeful the House will reconsider its ‘cut off your nose to spite your face’ rejection of TAA and move quickly toward passage, so the benefits of the TPA package may be realized.

“Americans thrive on trade and relish competition—we are not isolationists. A successful TPA package will support the hundreds of thousands of businesses that export products and help ensure our country’s strong, sustained economic growth.

“We thank the administration for making trade a priority and the members from both parties who voted in favor of TPA and TAA. Now, we encourage House members to swiftly pass TAA legislation next week and, in turn, secure the passage of TPA to ensure our presidents have the authority to negotiate vital, innovation-spurring agreements.”

About CEA:

The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the technology trade association representing the $286 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative and regulatory advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion, standards development and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also owns and produces CES – The Global Stage for Innovation. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA’s industry services. Find CEA online at CE.org, InnovationMovement.com and through social media: http://www.ce.org/social