Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on AGOA

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on AGOA

Today, the Ways and Means Committee marked up H.R. 6500, the African Growth and Opportunity (AGOA) Extension Act. In response, Congresswoman Moore released the following statement:

"AGOA is an important trading tool that supports economic opportunities and development in Sub-Saharan Africa. Since 2000, it has supported thousands of jobs in the region and plays a central role in the U.S.-sub-Saharan Africa trading relationship. But for months, unfortunately, AGOA has expired. It is vital that the Committee addresses that now.

I understand this proposal does not include provisions to improve labor and environmental standards. We must work to build upon AGOA and ensure it serves workers and protects our environmental resources; these are critical priorities for me. I am committed to helping make those reforms in other reauthorizations and enhancing this crucial economic tool.

I also support the HOPE (Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement) I and II and HELP (Haiti Economic Lift Program). As the people of Haiti experience extreme levels of violence and instability, it is even more important that we continue this program. While this program needs improvement, pulling the rug from under workers and manufacturers could only increase instability. We need to find ways to support the people of Haiti as they face challenges and hardship.

I would be remiss if I didn't express my disappointment at Republicans' refusal to reauthorize the Trade Adjustment Act (TAA). This is a crucial program that supports workers who experience job loss and job insecurity due to trade. Leaving TAA out only hurts American workers. I supported Rep. Horsford's amendment to reauthorize this program, but Republicans chose to strike it down.

I look forward to strengthening AGOA, so we can continue using trade to support progress and economic growth for the people of sub-Saharan Africa."