Press Release

Gutierrez Statement on the President’s Signing of the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 and the Omnibus Trade Bill

WASHINGTON—U.S. Commerce Secretary Carlos M. Gutierrez today released the following statement on the President’s signing of the Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 and the Omnibus Trade Bill:

"These two pieces of legislation ensure President Bush’s pro-growth policies continue to foster high paying jobs and economic prosperity for America’s workers and businesses.

"The Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 provides a $38 billion tax cut that will help families keep more of their hard-earned money, enable small businesses to grow and succeed and encourage more research and innovation so that our nation can remain the most competitive in the world.

"Low taxes are a key element of President Bush’s pro-growth policies that have strengthened our economy and stimulated the creation of more good jobs and higher wages."

The Omnibus Trade Bill continues ongoing U.S. humanitarian efforts by creating economic opportunities for developing countries through trade and lowering costs for U.S. manufacturers, retailers and consumers. With this legislation, more American businesses and workers will be able to take advantage of the commitments Vietnam has taken to further open its economy to American goods, services and investments. In addition, extending trade preferences to key African and Andean countries, as well as Haiti, will help these aspiring nations grow and enable American companies to have access to the resources necessary to maintain their competitive edge.