WASHINGTON, DC — Today, in a bipartisan vote, the Senate passed legislation establishing trade promotion authority (TPA). This action follows House passage last week, and the bill will now head to the president for his signature. In response, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Paul Ryan (R-WI) issued the following statement.

“Years of hard work have finally paid off. This is a win for our economy, for our national security, for government accountability, and for American leadership. With TPA in place, Congress will have more influence in trade negotiations. And nations around the world will know that America is ready to help write the rules of the global economy.

“But this is only the first step in breaking down trade barriers and expanding American exports into new markets. Now that TPA has been established, the president must negotiate a high-standard agreement that levels the playing field for American workers. If he or the next president doesn’t deliver, then Congress will vote no.

“We also must reach swift conclusion on the rest of our trade agenda, including trade preferences legislation, trade adjustment assistance, and legislation to strengthen our customs and trade enforcement laws. All these steps are necessary to promoting American trade and expanding opportunity right here at home. And I look forward to working with my colleagues to get the job done.”

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