Hoosier State Today

U.S. Senator Todd Young, along with a bipartisan group of senators, has urged the Biden Administration to halt secret trade negotiations with foreign partners. The concern is that the United States Trade Representative (USTR) is attempting to modify three significant trade agreements without public oversight or adequate congressional consultation.

The trade agreements in question include the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), the United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement, and the Dominican Republic-Central America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA-DR). These changes are expected by the end of President Biden's term.

The senators expressed their disapproval, stating: “Unfortunately, USTR is pursuing substantive changes to congressionally approved trade agreements on an abbreviated timeline, out of the view of the public, and without meaningful congressional consultation.” They further criticized USTR for not consulting or notifying Congress before drafting these proposals.

Concerns were raised about potential concessions to trading partners which could weaken U.S. leverage in advancing domestic priorities. Specific issues highlighted include Mexico’s fishing practices and energy laws under USMCA, Canada’s dairy policies, and Colombia's labor standards and market access issues.

“Robust consultations with Congress and stakeholders would help USTR ensure that its engagements help Americans get what they were promised under U.S. trade agreements,” the senators added. They called for a pause on negotiations until comprehensive consultations occur.

In addition to Senator Young, other signatories include Senators Mike Crapo, Ron Wyden, Tim Kaine, Tommy Tuberville, Michael Bennet, Thom Tillis, Catherine Cortez Masto, Chuck Grassley, Alex Padilla, Bill Cassidy, Chris Coons, Marsha Blackburn, Mark Warner, Katie Britt, Steve Daines, John Cornyn and Roger Marshall.

Senator Young has previously advocated for transparency in trade agreements and urged for thorough consultations with Congress regarding digital trade policy to counter restrictive policies from countries like Russia and China.