[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 167 (Wednesday, December 5, 2001)]
[House]
[Page H8848]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   OPPOSE FAST TRACK TRADE AUTHORITY

  (Ms. McCOLLUM asked and was given permission to address the House for 
1 minute and to revise and extend her remarks.)
  Ms. McCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, tomorrow the House will vote on a bill 
offered by the chairman of the Committee on Ways and Means which 
concedes to the executive branch this body's constitutional authority 
to negotiate trade agreements. My role in Congress is to represent the 
voices and values of the working men and women of Minnesota's fourth 
district, not to abdicate my vote to the President.
  I want an opportunity to have input on agreements that promote global 
trade. Trade agreements are essential to our economic well-being, to 
our role as a global leader in promoting workers' rights, human rights 
and healthy environment. This Fast Track trade authority requires no 
congressional approval prior to the signing of a trade agreement, only 
consultations. This body may only vote to certify that the 
administration has failed to consult with Congress.
  I was not elected to Congress to be a consultant. We are the House of 
Representatives, not the House of Consultants. I urge my colleagues to 
oppose H.R. 3005.

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