NEWS RELEASE

February 1, 2010

Mongiardo Calls for Fairer Trade Laws To Expand
U.S. Exports and Protect Jobs

FRANKFORT --- Saying that "both parties in Washington are responsible for U.S. trade policy that has amounted to little more than a jobs plan for other countries," Lt. Governor and U.S. Senate candidate Daniel Mongiardo called for fairer trade laws to reduce foreign barriers on American exports in a speech today before the Kentucky Association of Manufacturers.

Mongiardo said boosting trade is essential to economic recovery, but that major trade agreements like NAFTA have failed to require other countries to give open access to American goods.

"It's amazing to me that that the politicians in Washington continue to vote for trade agreements  that allow access to our markets and lower U.S. tariffs without asking for --- much less demanding --- reciprocity. I believe in expanding markets for American goods, but instead of benefiting American workers and manufacturers, our trade policy has hurt American workers and manufacturers, and sent American jobs overseas. We must demand reciprocity and tough enforcement provisions in any new trade agreements," said Mongiardo.

In his speech, Mongiardo said he supported bi-partisan legislation by Senators Olympia Snow and Mary Landrieu to enhance and bolster small business exports. 

"One of the quickest and least expensive ways to spur economic growth is through trade expansion. By expanding access to foreign markets, American manufacturers can sell their products to more consumers and businesses," said Mongiardo.

Mongiardo said he would support legislation to strengthen Congress's role and responsibility in making trade policy to include a periodic review of existing trade agreements and establishing higher standards to protect workers and the environment in developing countries.??"American workers and manufacturers are at a competitive disadvantage with countries that do not have reasonable protections for workers and environmental standards," said Mongiardo. 

To spur economic growth, Mongiardo also called for tax credits for small businesses that create jobs, developing clean coal technology, rebuilding Kentucky's transportation system, and transforming outdated paper-based healthcare system into a modern, technology driven, wellness-based system. For more information or to read the full text of Mongiardo's presentation visit www.DrDan2010.com.

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