Janice Schakowsky: “I appreciate the patience and understanding, just coming from a classified hearing. I want to first thank the chairman…”

“I appreciate the patience and understanding, just coming from a classified hearing. I want to first thank the chairman and his staff, as well as committee Democratic staff, for working so hard and so diligently and collaboratively to come to an agreement on legislation that will help guide American job and economic growth. There is a strong incentive to invest in America, which remains the best place on Earth to find talented, motivated employees who are the core of the middle class. My home State of Illinois ranks number one in the Midwest in terms of foreign direct investment, with nearly 1,600 foreign-based firms employing more than 300,000 Illinois residents. In attracting the investment, Illinois has showcased its world-class transportation infrastructure, its diversified economy, its productive workforce, and its cultural diversity and attractions. It has also maintained its strong labor, health, and environmental standards that helped build the middle class, which I believe is the key to successful foreign direct investment. Some companies are working to respect the rights of workers as they invest in the United States. On Friday, it was announced that Volkswagen is working collaboratively with the United Auto Workers to unionize its Chattanooga, Tennessee, plant. That will help to ensure that the best interests of American workers are a major consideration at the plant and the company as it continues its investment in the United States.…”