Erik Paulsen: “I thank the gentleman for yielding and for his leadership in bringing forward some additional trade legislation today…”

“I thank the gentleman for yielding and for his leadership in bringing forward some additional trade legislation today that is very, very important. I am going to rise in support of H.R. 1295, the Trade Preferences Extension Act, for a couple of key reasons, because there are some key, important provisions that accomplish some very critical goals. First, it extends those vital trade preferences with both Africa, through the African Growth and Opportunity Act, as well as Haiti. And these investments now, these preference programs, provide vital opportunities for American investment, for U.S. investment, long-term investment. These countries are asking for this investment for the long term. It helps the African workers, it helps Haitian workers and businesses as they establish themselves as developing countries to making sure they are going to be set for the 21st century global economy. So, Mr. Speaker, this is more about establishing soft power, strategic alliances, and that is smart power. Secondly, the legislation renews the Generalized System of Preferences program. Now, this is another very important program that reduces tariffs and, therefore, it reduces prices. It helps consumers here in the United States each and every day and the amount of product that they consume. Importantly, Mr.…”