WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee, today released the below statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA):

“I congratulate President Trump on this important trade agreement between the United States, Mexico and Canada, which passed the House of Representatives with my support. This agreement with Georgia’s top export markets is critical to ensuring the success of our businesses, farmers, and manufacturers," said Rep. Austin Scott. "Although a provision which would protect our fruit and vegetable growers from unfair trade practices was not part of the final agreement, I am thankful that Ambassador Robert Lighthizer has committed to addressing my concerns, and I look forward to continuing to work with the Administration to ensure American businesses and farmers receive a square deal in all trade agreements."

Included in the trade deal are the following top provisions important to Georgia:

• AGRICULTURE: Implements improvements to secure greater market access for America’s farmers, including new access for chicken and egg exports and expanded access for turkey exports.
• LABOR: Makes new enforceable labor standards a core part of the agreement, helping to level the playing field for American workers and improve wages and labor conditions across North America.
• RULES OF ORIGIN: Innovates “rules of origin” provisions to encourage more goods and materials to be manufactured in the United States and ensure the benefits of USMCA flow to North American workers.
• SMALL BUSINESS: Cuts customs and trade red tape to make it easier for small businesses to tap into foreign markets and participate in cross-border trade.

-30-