Teamsters and Labor Allies Urge Congress to Oppose Fast Track

Teamster Leaders, Members Speak Out Against Trade Deal That Would Hurt Workers

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International Brotherhood of Teamsters

Mar 04, 2015, 03:41 ET

WASHINGTON, March 4, 2015 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Teamsters from around the country joined their union brothers and sisters on Capitol Hill today to meet with members of Congress to discuss their continued opposition to fast-track trade promotion authority, which would have a damaging impact on American workers.

Teamster leaders and members from 12 states met with their members of Congress to discuss the impact that fast track would have on working families and to express their opposition.

In a press conference held on the Capitol grounds, they spoke out against the 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) or fast-track trade promotion authority that would speed its consideration.

"It's great to see Teamsters out in full force standing up for working people. We need good jobs and economic equality, not fast-track authority that will hurt workers," said Jim Hoffa, Teamsters General President.

In a show of solidarity, leaders from a cross-section of economic sectors representing 60 unions came together this week to sign a letter to Congress expressing opposition to fast-track authority, which is used to advance unfair trade deals. The letter was presented to members of Congress during today's meetings on Capitol Hill.

Hoffa signed the letter, urging Congress to oppose fast track, noting that fast track trade deals mean fewer jobs, lower wages and a declining middle class.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and "like" us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters.

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SOURCE International Brotherhood of Teamsters