WASHINGTON, May 22, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The
following is the official statement of Teamsters General President
Jim Hoffa in response to the
Senate's approval of a fast track bill today that will make it
easier for bad trade deals like the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)
to move through Congress.
"The Teamsters are taking a stand against fast track because
it's right for U.S. workers and right for this country. That
doesn't change because of this disappointing outcome in the Senate
that puts the powerful ahead of regular people trying to make ends
meet.
"As Congress heads home for Memorial
Day, the Teamsters and our fair trade allies will continue
our efforts to educate Democrats and Republicans in the House about
how fast track is the wrong track for America. We will meet with
members in their district offices and let them know they are
jeopardizing the livelihoods of their constituents if they approve
this measure.
"Fast track is the vehicle that will allow the still-secretive
TPP to sail through Capitol Hill with little debate and no chance
of amendments. It will jeopardize the U.S. economy by shipping jobs
overseas and lowering wages at home. It will hurt democracy by
making it possible for foreign corporations to pursue the
overturning of laws they don't like.
"This is not about being against trade. It is about sticking up
for what America is supposed to stand for – a place where an honest
worker can earn an honest wage that supports a family. Lawmakers
shouldn't be turning their back on those they are supposed to
represent."
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters
represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout
the United States, Canada and Puerto
Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us
on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at
www.facebook.com/teamsters.
Contact:
Galen Munroe, (202) 624-6911
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SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters