North Columbus News

Representative Mike Carey of Ohio has joined the effort to prevent U.S. trade policy from favoring foreign e-commerce operations over U.S.-based ones. Carey announced his co-sponsorship of the U.S. Foreign Trade Zone Parity Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at addressing the disparities in current trade policies.

In a statement, Carey emphasized the importance of updating trade rules to keep America competitive in the 21st century economy. He expressed pride in working with Representative Brad Wenstrup on this initiative, stating, "Our current trade policy counterintuitively benefits adversaries like China, and causes the loss of American jobs and opportunity."

Rep. Wenstrup, the lead sponsor of the bill, highlighted the significance of aligning trade and foreign policy to support U.S. businesses. He stated, "It's important for our trade and foreign policy to align; and I'm pleased that my colleagues, both Democrat and Republican, have joined me on this bill to ensure our trade policy doesn't punish U.S. businesses operating within the U.S."

The U.S. Foreign Trade Zone Parity Act has garnered support from various stakeholders who believe it will address economic disparities affecting American companies. Joseph R. Nardone, President & CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, expressed gratitude towards Congressman Wenstrup for proposing the bill, noting its potential to secure jobs and business operations in Ohio.

Kenny McDonald, President & CEO of the Columbus Partnership, lauded the bill for sustaining economic vitality in the region and promoting fair competition in the international market. He emphasized the importance of safeguarding local jobs and fostering a thriving business environment in Central Ohio.

Major companies like Columbia Sportswear Company, David's Bridal, and REI Co-op have also voiced their support for the U.S. Foreign Trade Zone Parity Act. Peter Bragdon of Columbia Sportswear Company praised the legislation for protecting American jobs and ensuring fair competition, while Jim Marcum of David's Bridal commended Congressman Wenstrup's efforts to level the playing field for American businesses.

Taldi Harrison, Director of Government Affairs at REI Co-op, highlighted the importance of creating parity for U.S. Foreign Trade Zones to enable the outdoor retail industry to compete globally while upholding U.S. trade, health, and safety laws.

The National Association of Foreign-Trade Zones (NAFTZ) expressed gratitude for the bipartisan bill, emphasizing its potential to level the playing field for U.S.-based operations and retain American jobs. Jeff Tafel, President of NAFTZ, underscored the bill's aim to provide parity to U.S. FTZs and support further economic growth within the United States.

The U.S. Foreign Trade Zone Parity Act aims to address the existing disparities in trade policies and ensure a level playing field for American businesses operating within the U.S. foreign trade zones.