Griffin: Russia Trade Deal Will Strengthen Economy, Create Jobs

WASHINGTON – Congressman Tim Griffin (AR-02) issued the following statement after House passage of the Russia and Moldova Jackson-Vanik Repeal Act (H.R. 6156):

"Last year alone, Arkansas sold more than $56 million worth of goods and services to Russia, and by opening up this market to even more Arkansas-made goods, we can strengthen our economy and create more jobs here at home.  I am proud to support this measure that will make it easier for U.S. products to reach Russia’s 140 million consumers, and I encourage the Senate to pass it quickly.”

H.R. 6156 would grant Russia and Moldova permanent normal trade relations in order for the United States to receive the open markets benefits resulting from Russia joining the World Trade Organization (WTO).  The Jackson-Vanik amendment to the Trade Act of 1974 restricted trade with the U.S. in an effort to push the Soviet Union to allow the emigration of Soviet Jews and other victims of religious persecution.  With the fall of the Soviet Union, this policy is no longer necessary, and its repeal will ensure that the United States remains internationally competitive now that Russia has joined the WTO. 

H.R. 6156 is supported by over 400 community and pro-jobs organizations including the American Farm Bureau Federation, the Poultry Federation, the USA Poultry & Egg Export Council, the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association, the American Soybean Association, the American Forest & Paper Association, the National Association of Manufacturers, Wal-Mart, and Caterpillar, Inc.