House GOP Ready "Now" to Move on TPA, Says Ryan
House Republicans are prepared to move on Trade Promotion Authority “now,” said new House Ways and Means Chairman Paul Ryan, R-Wis., in a Jan. 15 committee press release on the legislation’s merits (here). “TPA is the essential first step for expanding American exports and helping create new jobs,” said the release.
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Ryan voiced support for the legislation at a hearing in recent days (see 1501130015). Many observers think he’s committed to advancing the bill (see 1501040001). TPA is critical to securing the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership, Ryan said. The bill also gives foreign trade partners confidence in Congress’ ability to pass agreed upon negotiations, provides Congress the power to determine negotiating objectives, and allows the bill to move quickly through both chambers on Capitol Hill, the release said.
The committee release also hit back at concerns over enough consultations and access to negotiating texts. TPA will “keep Congress—and the public—fully informed during the negotiations process. TPA requires the administration to consult with members of Congress—any member has the right to a briefing at any time—and puts in place transparency measures so there are no surprises along the way,” said the briefing. Both House Democrats and a group of conservative organizations pledged to help defeat the bill in recent days over those concerns (see 1501140011).