[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 103 (Thursday, June 25, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E981]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      TRADE ADJUSTMENT ASSISTANCE

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. ADAM SMITH

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 25, 2015

  Mr. SMITH of Washington. Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support of 
Trade Adjustment Assistance. Although it is important that we sustain 
this program, this is not the best reauthorization bill the House could 
consider. However, the program expires on September 30 and this 
legislation allows workers in my district and across the country to 
access the support they need to compete in our global economy.
  Unlike the bill that I introduced with Ranking Member Levin earlier 
this year, today's bill has several shortcomings, including one of 
critical concern. This legislation cuts funding for worker training 
from $575 million to $450 million at a time when we are expanding 
markets and transforming our economy.
  We are in the middle of simultaneously negotiating trade agreements 
with Asia and the Pacific, as well as the European Union. Those who are 
impacted from increased competition deserve support and a safety net to 
adjust and reenter the job market.
  The Administration recognizes that the $450 million funding level 
does not take into account increased competition from Asia and the 
Pacific. However, Secretary Perez has assured Congress that his funding 
level is adequate to cover not only training services, but also case 
management, reemployment services, and state administration of the 
program--all areas that had been previously funded separately, not with 
a combined funding stream, like that in this bill. I hope the Secretary 
is correct but should this not be the case, I hope the Administration 
is prepared to work with Congress to provide additional funding with 
the same vigor they've invested in passing TPA.
  I am glad to see that we are no longer paying for this program by 
cutting funds from Medicare. However, I am disappointed that this bill 
does not qualify public sector workers for Trade Adjustment Assistance. 
They are an important part of our workforce and should be able to 
qualify for access to the same services.
  Our nation's economy and success depend on our workers. Over the last 
decade, I have been a strong supporter of Trade Adjustment Assistance 
and have led the effort to protect, extend, and enhance the program. I 
believe in this program and will continue this fight for good jobs, to 
ensure American workers can provide for their families, and that our 
country remains competitive.

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