Congressman Andy Barr (KY-6) today voted in favor of Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), which establishes strict guidelines, congressional oversight, and public transparency requirements as the Obama Administration negotiates new trade agreements. The legislation gives Congress the final say on any new trade agreement, but only after any proposed agreement is available to the public for at least 60 days before a vote.
“Trade is vital to Kentucky’s economy, and passage of this legislation will help American negotiators get the best trade agreements possible,” said Congressman Barr. “This legislation will also rein in the Obama Administration through strict oversight, public disclosure of potential agreements, and a requirement that Congress always have the final say before any agreement is finalized.”
“Passage of this legislation is a positive step forward for not only opening new markets for Kentucky exports such as automobiles, coal, bourbon, agriculture, and aerospace technologies, but also for demonstrating that bipartisan agreement is possible to enact policies that will grow our economy and encourage job creation.”