I voted Yes on H.R. 6156, the Russia and Moldova Jackson-Vanik Repeal Act of 2012.

This legislation would grant Russia and Moldova Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) with the United States.  The U.S. is not required to make any market access or tariff concessions to Russia under this bill.  This legislation will strengthen the Upstate economy, hold these countries accountable to fair trade practices, and reaffirm our commitment to protecting human rights and freedoms around the world.

Russia joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) on August 22, 2012 and made significant concessions to the international community in order to further open its markets and comply with WTO rules.  However, in order to take advantage of Russia's newly opened markets, the United States must formally grant Russian PNTR by repealing so-called “Jackson-Vanik” restrictions.  Until the United States grants Russia PNTR, New York farmers and other exporters are at a distinct competitive disadvantage with our foreign competitors who are already enjoying greater access to Russian markets. 

New York State is forecast to export more than $1.4 million in agricultural products this year alone, and granting PNTR will lower tariffs and level the playing field for New York dairy farmers and apple growers in particular.  Further, PNTR with Russia will afford the United States the full array of rights and protections under the WTO should Russia engage in unfair trade practices.

Importantly, H.R. 6156 also includes legislation to address Russia's troublesome history of human rights abuses by targeting those responsible for the death of Russian activist Sergei Magnitsky - and other individuals who violated internationally recognized human rights and freedoms.  The Departments of State and Treasury would be required to publish the names of such individuals, prohibit them entry into the United States, and freeze their financial assets.

I supported this legislation because it makes America more competitive in the global economy by allowing our American employers, especially Upstate farms, to do more business and thrive in the large Russian consumer market.  More exports to Russia will help our manufacturers and farms to create more jobs here creating those products and services.  The Russia and Moldova Jackson-Vanik Repeal Act allows upstate New York businesses to do what they do best – compete.

H.R. 6156 was approved on a vote of 365 – 43.