Nebraska Farm Bureau urges Congress to quickly grant Obama Trade Promotion Authority

The Nebraska Farm Bureau (NFB) called on Congress to quickly grant President Barack Obama Trade Promotion Authority (TPA) on Monday, saying it would boost exports for the state’s farmers, ranchers and manufacturers.

TPA gives the president the authority to secure trade agreements with foreign partners. The NFB noted that TPA has been given to every president since 1974. TPA helps to avoid Congressional amendments and conditions to trade agreements, although Congress and the president can work together to set negotiating objectives.

“U.S. farmers and ranchers increasingly rely on agriculture exports for their livelihoods. Roughly 20 percent of U.S. farm income now comes from foreign exports,” NFB President Steve Nelson, said. “Exports aren’t just critical for agriculture, but also for Nebraska’s manufacturing sector.

Nebraska exported nearly $7.9 billion worth of goods in 2014 alone.”

The majority of the state’s exports are food and agricultural products, accounting for $3.5 billion.

“The passage of TPA and the approval of free trade compacts help drive economic growth and level the playing field for American farmers and ranchers internationally," Nelson said. "It’s critical Congress move quickly to secure TPA."