FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Nicole Reigelman House Democratic Communications Office Phone: 717-787-7895 Fax: 717-783-6839 Email: nreigelm@pahouse.net	State Rep. Mark Cohen D-Philadelphia www.pahouse.com/cohen
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Cohen wants to give legislature voice in trade agreements

HARRISBURG, June 21 – State Rep. Mark Cohen, D-Phila., has introduced a measure that would give a voice to the legislature and state residents in federal trade agreements that affect Pennsylvania and its residents.

Cohen’s bill (H.B. 1603) would require the governor and General Assembly to establish a joint committee to review international trade agreements proposed by the federal government.  Currently, the federal government submits international trade agreements to the governor, who usually has about a month to review and offer recommendations on those agreements.

Cohen said federal trade agreements often supersede state law and state Supreme Court decisions, so having input from the legislature is critical.

“Trade agreements negotiated by our federal government can have enormous repercussions on our state’s economy and employment outlook,” Cohen said. “Giving elected state officials a stronger voice on these matters gives the people themselves a stronger voice.”

Cohen also said the committee would produce an official record if a proposed trade agreement is opposed by the state legislature.

The bill would give legislative leaders a forum in which to insist that trade agreements respect the state’s economic development and environmental laws, he said.

Cohen introduced a similar measure as resolution in the House (H.R. 226) earlier this year, which was referred to the House Intergovernmental Affairs Committee for consideration.

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