In order to advance U.S. digital trade policies that benefit consumers and businesses, U.S. Reps. Darin LaHood (R-IL) and Adrian Smith (R-NE) recently introduced a bipartisan, bicameral resolution to highlight the importance of the U.S. digital economy.
“Supporting free and open digital trade policies will support our broader trade and economic strategy, help U.S. industries remain competitive in the global marketplace, and support our national security interests,” said Rep. LaHood, co-chair of the Digital Trade Caucus. “A robust and proactive digital trade agenda that sets the rules and standards in the evolving digital trade marketplace will strengthen the American economy and our partnerships around the globe.”
Rep. LaHood sponsored House Resolution 270 on March 30, along with Congressman Smith and U.S. Rep. Suzan DelBene (D-WA), who also serves as co-chair of the Digital Trade Caucus. The resolution states that the U.S. should negotiate strong, inclusive, and forward-looking rules on digital trade and the digital economy with like-minded countries as part of its broader trade and economic strategy to ensure American values of democracy, the rule of law, freedom of speech, human and worker rights, privacy, and a free and open internet are at the very core of digital governance.
Rep. Smith, chairman of the House Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee, noted that U.S. companies rely on sound trade policymaking to plan for the future. “The United States cannot afford to fall behind and cede ground to adversaries who do not share our values, like China. This bipartisan legislation reinforces our commitment to advancing economic prosperity through digital trade, and I thank my colleagues for their work on this resolution.”
Companion legislation, Senate Resolution 155, was introduced by U.S. Sens. Todd Young (R-IN) and Tom Carper (D-DE).