On the recordJune 11, 2014
I assure the gentleman from California that I will be committed to working with both he and Mr. Crawford as we continue on this issue. I agree with my colleagues that the final WTO ruling on the pending COOL case could bring irreparable harm to various U.S. industries. As has been noted, report language has been included expressing the committee's concern that U.S. exports to Mexico and Canada will suffer an economic impact of approximately $2 billion in retaliatory tariffs. The report directs USDA not to implement or enforce the COOL final rule for meat labeling, should the WTO issue a final ruling against the United States. Again, I can assure both of my colleagues here this afternoon that it is my intention to protect our domestic industries from retaliation. We will closely monitor the progress of the WTO in this matter and will respond as necessary, so that our U.S. economy does not suffer. I thank the gentleman for the opportunity to discuss this important issue with both of you, and I look forward to working with both of you as we move forward.
