Number: RL31356
Title: Free Trade Agreements: Impact on U.S. Trade and Implications for U.S. Trade Policy
Authors: William H. Cooper, Specialist in International Trade and Finance 
Abstract: The 111th Congress and the Obama Administration face the question of whether and when to act on three pending FTAs-with Colombia, Panama, and South Korea. Although the Bush Administration signed these agreements, it and the leaders of the 110th Congress could not reach agreement on proceeding to enact them. During the presidential campaign, then-Sen. Obama expressed skepticism about the agreements and about Bush Administration FTA policy in general. Some Members of Congress have also raised concerns about the FTAs. In addition, the Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) expired on July 1, 2007, meaning that any new FTAs agreed to would not likely receive expedited legislative consideration, unless the authority is renewed.
Pages: 14
Date: Updated January 13, 2009