Washington, DC– An amendment offered today by Congressman David B. McKinley, P.E., (WV-1)will help small businesses fight illegal and unfair foreign trade. The amendment will provide resources for legal representation and assistance for small businesses at the International Trade Commission, where they can fight illegal trade practices.

“Small manufacturers and businesses across the First District are constantly struggling to compete with illegal and unfair competition from China and other countries. Yet when they file claims against large, state-supported companies they are at a distinct disadvantage,” said McKinley.“This amendment would give American manufacturers the tools to fight back and level the playing field.”

“This issue was brought to us by small businesses in West Virginia and we have worked to address it. Foreign competitors are able to take advantage of state subsidies, currency manipulation and lax labor and environmental standards that allow them to undercut prices and gives them an edge in global competition,” added McKinley. “Small businesses should have the same access to justice as anyone else and this funding would ensure they get the assistance they deserve.”

A similar amendment offered by Rep. McKinley was passed last year in the House.