John Shaw: “this evening I rise in support of the United States-Dominican Republic-Central American Free Trade Agreement. This…”

“this evening I rise in support of the United States-Dominican Republic-Central American Free Trade Agreement. This important agreement will benefit the businesses and workers not only in my district but also throughout the rest of Florida and, yes, indeed, the rest of this Nation. The high tech companies located in and around my district will immediately benefit from the elimination of duties and other barriers to trade. In addition, DR-CAFTA will protect the copyrights and intellectual property of those companies, thereby helping to spur innovation. The liberalization of services under DR-CAFTA will make it easier for telecommunication, transportation, and computer service companies located in my district to explore new business opportunities in Central America and Dominican Republic. Further, increased trade between Florida and DR-CAFTA countries will lead to increased business for shippers and carriers moving goods in and out of the Ports of Palm Beach, the Everglades and Ft. Lauderdale and, yes, Port of Miami. If we vote to approve DR-CAFTA we ensure future American competitiveness in Central America, the Dominican Republic and the continued growth of our economy. This will benefit my constituents and all Americans. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this most important agreement. ____________________”