On the recordDecember 15, 2010
I want to talk just a minute about what I consider to be one of the most important features of this bill with respect to American jobs, and that is the miscellaneous tariff provisions contained in the bill. These miscellaneous tariff provisions allow for U.S. companies to import items that cannot be obtained in this country to be used in the manufacturing process, thereby making U.S. manufacturing concerns more competitive in the world market and in being able to increase employment in our own country. This cannot be, I don't think, overstated or overestimated as to its importance; although, it might be a very small part of what we are trying to do in the whole area of trade. I hope that we can move forward--even though I won't be here next year, I hope we can move forward on some trade agreements that are pending. This is an exciting time. It is a time for America to get back in the business, and this omnibus trade bill is a good start.
