On the recordMay 22, 2015
before President Obama or President Hillary Clinton or President Lindsey Graham decides that China should be admitted to the Trans-Pacific Partnership, this amendment ensures that Congress play a role in that decision. A vote for this amendment is not a poison pill. It does not kill TPP or TPA. This amendment simply spells out a process for future countries to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership. It would require the President to notify Congress of intent to enter into negotiations, and it would require certification from Senate Finance and House Ways and Means and final approval by a vote of both Houses of Congress. It is pretty simple. Before the world's second largest economy--the People's Republic of China--becomes part of TPP, there should be vigorous public debate and there should be congressional approval. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Senator from Utah.
