House Democrats and Administration Agree, Congress Considering USMCA

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – Today, Mexico approved U.S. changes to the U.S.-Mexico-Canada (USMCA) trade agreement, paving the way for congressional ratification. The Trump administration worked closely with Congressional Democrats to address their concerns in the revisions to the agreement. Now, the House can begin the process of debating the new trade pact – beginning in the House Ways and Means Committee – before the entire House will vote up or down on the legislation. According to the Trade Promotion Authority given to the President by Congress, no amendments are allowed to be considered. If approved, the measure will move to the Senate beginning in the Finance Committee where Chairman Chuck Grassley (IA-R) says their work will happen quickly. Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee Colin Peterson (MN-D) says “this agreement makes updates to how the three countries will address biotechnology and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) issues. The USMCA also preserves the market our farmers are currently accessing while making modest gains for our dairy, poultry, and wheat growers in the Canadian market. Rural America has faced many hurdles and challenges with these trade wars, and passing the USMCA is a step in the right direction.”