January 20, 2010

New Dems Encouraged by Japan's Announcement of Changes to Clunkers Program

Today, leaders of the New Democrat Coalition, led by Congressman Joseph Crowley (NY-07), Chair, and Congressman Adam Smith (WA-09), Chair of the New Dem Trade Task Force, released the following statement regarding the announcement of revisions to the Japanese Environmental Friendly Vehicles Program ("eco-cars") by the Embassy of Japan:

"The New Dems applaud the announcement by the Embassy of Japan that US autos will now be eligible for Japan's ‘clunkers program'. This announcement comes after 40 New Dems led by Congressman Jim Moran, called on Japan to include American automakers in their vehicle scrappage program, just as Japanese automakers participated in the US ‘cash for clunkers program'.

"The New Dems have long advocated for the economic and national security benefits of building and maintaining strong relationships with key trading partners like Japan, and as part of these agreements we must hold our partners accountable in cases of discrimination against American goods and services. We appreciate the changes that were made by Japan to their ‘cash for clunkers program' and hope to continue this important dialogue to ensure American businesses and services have equal access to compete in global trading programs. The New Dems are committed to working with House Leadership, Ambassador Kirk, and the Administration on a balanced trade agenda that allows American businesses and workers to compete in the global marketplace, supports our national security needs, and fosters future economic growth."

Statement supported by New Democrat Coalition Trade Task Force Chair, Representative Adam Smith (WA-09) and the New Dem Leadership Members, led by Chair Representative Joseph Crowley (NY-07), and Vice-Chairs Representative Melissa Bean (IL-08), Representative Ron Kind (WI-03), Representative Allyson Schwartz (PA-13), and Representative Adam Smith (WA-09).?

The New Democrat Coalition is a Coalition of 67 members of the U.S. House of Representatives who are dedicated to the prosperity and security of American families and business. Founded in 1997, the NDC provides Members of Congress with the opportunity to advance a common sense policy agenda focused on empowering the U.S. to grow economically and maintain a vibrant job market, preserving the U.S. standing as the world's leader in innovation and technological advancement, and strengthening our economic and national security. For more information, visit the New Dems website at https://ndc.crowley.house.gov.

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