That is what Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch (R-UT) reportedly told The Hill newspaper yesterday. Hatch, as chairman of the committee with jurisdiction over trade issues and one of the architects of the Trade Promotion Authority (TPA), would play a key role in moving TPP implementing legislation through the Senate.
Since TPP negotiations concluded last year, Hatch has expressed concerns about certain provisions related to biologic drugs. That issue has not been resolved, but the article notes that “Hatch said he is getting assurances from the White House that a solution is in the works that will address the trade deal’s problems.”
Given his key position, Hatch’s support is necessary for any successful effort to pass TPP this year. Yet much work remains to educate Members of Congress about the potential benefits of TPP for American companies and workers. Importers with a stake in TPP can show their support for passage in 2016 by adding their names to the free TPP importers list here. Those who are unsure about potential gains can learn more at our TPP Import Benefits page.