| Contacts: | Meghan Henning tel: 703-907-7654 e-mail: mhenning@CE.org |
Laura Hubbard tel: 703-907-4326 e-mail: lhubbard@CE.org |
CEA APPLAUDS REPRESENTATIVE KENDRICK MEEK FOR WITHDRAWING HIS SUPPORT FROM THE MICHAUD BILL
| Arlington, Virginia | 10/23/2009 |
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA)® applauds Representative Kendrick Meek (D-FL) for his decision this week to withdraw support from the Michaud Bill, which seeks an overhaul of existing trade agreements.
The measure by Rep. Michael Michaud (D-ME) would essentially renegotiate or scrap several major trade agreements and be a severe blow to U.S. business, entrepreneurs and job growth. "Moreover," adds Gary Shapiro, president and CEO of CEA, "it would send a disastrous message to our trading partners and allies around the globe." Rep. Meek has supported trade deals with Peru, Chile, Singapore and Australia.
Current pending trade agreements in front of the U.S. Congress include deals with Colombia, Panama and South Korea. The consumer electronics industry is among the fastest growing sectors in the U.S. economy, creating tens of thousands of U.S. jobs which are reliant on the ability to trade globally.
About CEA:
The Consumer Electronics Association (CEA) is the preeminent trade association promoting growth in the $172 billion U.S. consumer electronics industry. More than 2,000 companies enjoy the benefits of CEA membership, including legislative advocacy, market research, technical training and education, industry promotion and the fostering of business and strategic relationships. CEA also sponsors and manages the International CES - Where Entertainment, Technology and Business Converge. All profits from CES are reinvested into CEA's industry services. Find CEA online at www.CE.org.