Trade and Globalization Assistance Act of 2007

Floor Speech

TRADE AND GLOBALIZATION ASSISTANCE ACT OF 2007 -- (House of Representatives - October 31, 2007)

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Mrs. MALONEY of New York. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman for yielding and I rise in support of this important legislation.

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Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 3920, the Trade Globalization Assistance Trade Act of 2007.

This legislation would overhaul the current Trade Adjustment Assistance, TAA, program to better meet the needs of American workers and communities affected by globalization.

This legislation passed the Ways and Means Committee by the strong bipartisan vote of 26-14 and I hope that we are able to provide a similar bipartisan vote again here today.

After years of trade policies that all too often diminished the importance of our workforce, today's legislation will rightfully support the working men and women in our country.

Specifically, H.R. 3920 would expand Trade Adjustment Assistance coverage to more workers, including service workers, and substantially improve the program's training opportunities and associated health care benefits.

The bill also creates new benefits and tax incentives for industries and communities that have been hit hard by trade.

Finally, the legislation would promote long-needed reforms to the unemployment insurance system, recognizing that all unemployed workers, not just those who lose their jobs because of trade, deserve our support in getting back on their feet.

I congratulate Chairman Rangel for bringing forth this important legislation and I urge all of my colleagues to support this important legislation.

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