Rep. Sutton Statement In Response To Japan's Announcement To Include U.S. Manufactured Automobiles In Its Cash For Clunkers Program

Statement

Today, Rep. Betty Sutton (D-OH) released the following statement in response to Japan's announcement to include U.S. manufactured automobiles in its Cash for Clunkers program:

"Two weeks ago, I introduced a resolution in Congress to push forth change to the Japanese Cash for Clunkers Program which excluded U.S. manufactured automobiles. Today's announcement by the Japanese government that they are opening up their cash for clunker program to allow participation of U.S. imports is a step in the right direction. It's critically important that U.S. workers and businesses have reciprocal access to the markets of our trading partners so that American workers and businesses are not left at an unfair disadvantage. While today's announcement is welcome news, we must continue to make sure that markets remain open to U.S. imports. Our workers are truly the best in the world and can compete with anyone as long as there is a level playing field.

"At the end of the day, this is not just an issue about the cash for clunker program in Japan. It is not about "this country" or "that country." The significant issue is not a question of being "pro-trade" or "anti-trade." It is about the "rules of trade" and making sure that they are fair and enforceable. The American people want nothing more and they deserve nothing less. We have a responsibility to develop a trade model that will not leave our workers and businesses at a disadvantage. We must implement a trade model that will not reward companies for moving overseas or encourage them to outsource jobs and our future. We must have a trade model that will put an enforceable end to illegal subsidies and currency manipulation by foreign governments. We must follow a trade model that works with our businesses and workers and our communities, enabling them to thrive. We must have a trade model that will require reciprocity of market access and ensure that products produced elsewhere and consumed here are safe. We must make sure that the rules of trade are fair, enforceable and enforced."

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