U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ), Ranking Democratic Member of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade, gave the following statement after the public release of a draft letter noticing Congress about the opening of renegotiations of the NAFTA trade pact:

"In my view, this draft falls far short of the kinds of trade policy reforms we need and the President led the American people to expect. It is baffling that this Administration makes no mention of currency manipulation -- let alone call for strong and enforceable commitments. And I do not get the sense that the Administration yet understands the importance of ensuring full implementation of international labor standards in Mexico to ensure the competitiveness of U.S. workers in the North American market," Rep. Pascrell said. "I will also be seeking clarity on the Administration’s intention to secure meaningful and enforceable labor and environmental provisions and reforms to investor-state dispute settlement. Our workers and manufacturing sector won’t benefit from a new deal unless negotiators begin with the right objectives."