Max Baucus: “I reinforce the words of Senator Reid. We want this bill passed. This is a jobs bill. This bill provides a tax break for…”

“I reinforce the words of Senator Reid. We want this bill passed. This is a jobs bill. This bill provides a tax break for the domestic manufacturing industry. An overwhelming majority of Senators on both sides support this bill. Actually, this bill is being held up at this point because the other side of the aisle doesn't want to vote on the Harkin amendment. That amendment is a very simple amendment. It is to maintain a current overtime provision, which clearly is related to jobs in America. Senator Harkin will agree to a time agreement. At the same time, Senator Grassley and I have worked with other Senators to bring the list down to a manageable number. I have talked to Senators during the vote and we have all agreed to time limitations on their amendments. I call upon the majority to let us proceed with the bill, with a vote on the Harkin amendment, and let us proceed with votes on the legitimate amendments we have pared it down to, which is very manageable. We can proceed. That is what is happening. Our side would like to continue to work on the bill and get votes on important amendments. I hope the other side agrees to let us vote on that amendment. I think we can get the bill passed this week. We can show the European Union we are taking action on the WTO ruling. Also, we can show the other body we are moving quickly. The other body is not moving as fast as I believe it should be.”