Congressman Panetta Statement on USMCA Entry Into Force

WASHINGTON, DC – Today Congressman Jimmy Panetta (CA-20) released the following statement on the Entry Into Force of the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). The Entry Into Force makes the agreement's new standards and enforcement mechanisms effective starting today:

"As a representative for the central coast of California, I'm proud that USMCA provides our agriculture producers with the certainty that they'll have access to our largest markets, sound science will be used to set food safety standards, and market access will be increased for California wines in Canada.

"Moreover, as a member of the Ways and Means Committee, we worked hard to secure enforceable labor and environmental protections, making this hemispheric trade deal a model for how Congress and the Administration can work together to ensure that trade agreements meet high standards.

"However, as a member of Congress, we must remain vigilant to ensure our trade partners are following through on their commitments and that this Administration, when necessary, employs the enforcement tools the agreement provides. Already, we are seeing the difficulties of transforming labor regimes and standing up new oversight functions. With the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbating these challenges, today's entry into force only marks the beginning of the potential for USMCA as we must be prepared to leverage this agreement to make real progress.

"As a member of the Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, I will work to ensure this agreement lives up to its promise to raise standards and increase prosperity throughout North America."

Congressman Panetta serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, Agriculture Committee, and Budget Committee.