WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives dealt President Barack Obama a crushing blow in shooting down a trade bill that would have given him powers to fast-track trade deals with other nations through Congress that he has negotiated.
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) Program is a federal program established under the Trade Act of 1974 that provides aid to workers who lose their jobs or whose hours of work and wages are reduced as a result of increased imports. The TAA program offers a variety of benefits and reemployment services to help unemployed workers prepare for and obtain suitable employment. Workers may be eligible for training, job search and relocation allowances, income support, and other reemployment services.
The White House describes TAA this way: “If trade is believed to have played a significant part in job losses, then an employer, a group of three workers, a union or worker representative, or an American Job Center representative can apply for TAA benefits on behalf of the affected workers.”
On Friday, the House voted down the measure, with 126 in favor, and 302 voting against. Many Democrats went against President Obama. Left-winger Nancy Pelosi said “We want a better deal for American workers,” as she announced her opposition to the bill.
Present Obama urged Congress to reconsider Saturday morning.
“I urge those Members of Congress who voted against Trade Adjustment Assistance to reconsider, and stand up for American workers. Because these smart new trade deals aren’t just about growing our economy and supporting good new American jobs. This is about the kind of country we want to build for our kids and our grandkids.” —President Obama: http://go.wh.gov/WjHKN3 #LeadOnTrade
Posted by The White House on Saturday, June 13, 2015
