Washington, DC – Today, Ways and Means Chairman Dave Camp (R-MI) issued the following statement as Russia becomes a member of the World Trade Organization (WTO).  In July, Camp, along with Ways and Means trade leaders, introduced legislation granting Russia permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) to ensure that U.S. employers, workers, farmers and ranchers benefit from Russia’s membership in the WTO.  The Committee, on a voice vote, approved the measure on July 26.

“As of today, Russia has become a WTO member.  While our competitors are reaping the benefits, we will not until the House, Senate and President act.  It is my hope that in September we build on the strong, bipartisan support in the Ways and Means Committee as well as the Senate Finance Committee and send legislation to the President for his signature.  At a time when the unemployment rate has been over 8 percent for 42 months, we cannot afford to further delay legislation that will boost U.S. exports and jobs.”