Portman Votes to Allow Debate on Measures to Level the Playing Field for American Workers

Press Release

Today, U.S. Senator Rob Portman (R-Ohio) released the following statement regarding his vote to allow debate on a package of trade bills:

"I voted to move forward on this package of bills so that I can continue to fight for my priorities of growing American exports, which support good-paying middle-class jobs, while ensuring American workers are competing on a level playing field by putting into place enforceable rules to stop currency manipulation. I told Senate leaders that I need a vote on my currency amendment and I received a commitment that would happen. I will also continue to push for other important enforcement measures that I strongly support, including in the customs bill that passed in committee and would come to the floor separately based on the bipartisan agreement in committee.

"Further, I am pleased that this first package will include an extension of Trade Adjustment Assistance that provides important protections for American workers and families looking to get back on their feet. The TAA bill also includes an extension of the Health Coverage Tax Credit which is vital for Ohio families in Youngstown, Dayton, Sandusky and beyond."

Portman plans to offer his amendment that puts teeth into addressing currency manipulation by holding countries accountable to International Monetary Fund standards. It would add explicit and enforceable currency language necessary to ensure that foreign competitors don't use their exchange rates to subsidize their exports at the expense of products made by American workers.

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