I agree with Albert Kreb’s August 12 letter regarding Rick Larsen’s vote on “fast tract” legislation (“Rick Larsen: Playing the politics as usual game”). Congress talks about corporate accountability, but when no one is watching, they’re inclined to throw taxpayer dollars at the world’s richest companies.
Just before the August recess, Congress passed and resident Bush signed a sweeping corporate giveaway called “fast track” trade legislation. Fast track would be used to expand provisions in the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which allows foreign corporations to sue our state and federal government if our laws to protect our environment or working families interfere with their profits.
Already, foreign companies have used these NAFTA rules to sue taxpayers for $4 billion in an attempt to undercut a crucial clean water law in California. A recent Tufts University study says NAFTA-style corporate lawsuits could eventually line the pockets of global corporations with $32 billion in US taxpayer money every year.
I believe that Americans want irresponsible companies held accountable, not given more breaks. Congress and the president should think twice before entering into new trade deals that can harm working families and the environment.
Everett
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