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Trade

“If Americans fear for their economic security, then America fears for its national security. Some say the new trade policy sets a floor, but I think it begins to pour a new foundation to support American workers and business, and restoring America to a leadership role in improving the lives of people everywhere.”
- Jim McDermott, from his Huffington Post article “Real Progress on Trade”

As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, I am committed to ensuring United States trade policy adequately responds to the challenges that face the United States and its economic partners around the world.

African Growth and Opportunity Act

I recently introduced the New Partnership for Trade Development Act (H.R.4101), legislation devoted to improving trade and U.S. development efforts around the world. The act will extend the benefits of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act. AGOA works with leaders of certain African countries to help establish open economies and free markets.

Get quarterly updates about AGOA here.

Trade and Washington

I sit on the Trade Subcommittee of the House Ways and Means Committee, which has jurisdiction over international trade policy. As a representative from Washington State, one of the most trade-dependent states in the nation, I have been a strong advocate for new initiatives in U.S. trade.

Washington is ranked #4 in exports within the United States and last year, we totaled over $66.8 billion dollars worth of exports.

With its strong economy, educated population, and industries such as biotechnology, marine technology, agriculture, aviation, and software, business in Washington State is booming. In 2009, U.S. News & World Report ranked Washington as the #1 state to start a business.

For more information on the benefits of trade within Washington State and the rest of the United States, here are the following resources:

Choose Washington- Information on growing or starting your business in Washington State, exporting your products, or finding incentives and financing.

Washington State Department of Commerce- Information on community services, international trade and economic development within WA State, and local government.

Washington Wire- Up to date news on economic development in WA State.



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