222 Columbia Street Northwest
Olympia, WA 98501
USA
The Thurston County League of Women Voters will host a free public forum on the TransPacific Partnership on September 17, 6:30 pm, at the Olympia Center.
Congress narrowly approved Fast Track for trade deals, such as the pending TransPacific Partnership (TPP), a few months back. The TPP itself may face an up or down vote by year’s end, with only a simple majority (rather than the usual filibuster-proof supermajority) required for approval in the U.S. Senate. Floor debate will be limited, and there will be no opportunity to amend the draft agreement, still largely kept secret from the American public. Both of Washington’s senators, Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, were vocal advocates for Fast Track. Our representative in the House, Denny Heck, voted no.
What’s next? Why should we care about the Trans Pacific Partnership? Why is it so controversial? How can we best make our voices heard? What would it mean for labor, environment, the economy, human rights? Can its problems be remedied? What would a good trade deal look like? Could a good trade agreement help mitigate global climate chaos and improve lives here and in developing countries? Is Congress listening to constituent voices?
Experts will address these questions and more. Please join us at 6:30 pm on September 17th at the Olympia Center.
