Producer/Host: Amy Browne
Audio recorded by: Adam Lacher
The 4th– and final– segment of excerpts from the testimony at the Maine Citizen Trade Policy Commission’s recent public hearing in Bangor. The commission was established by Maine’s legislature in 2004 to assess and monitor the legal and economic impacts of trade agreements on state and local laws, working conditions, and the business environment in Maine, and to provide a mechanism for citizens and legislators to voice their concerns and recommendations to our Congressional Delegation. It was the first of its kind in the country and has served as a model for other states. The board is made up of representatives of various stakeholders. U.S. Congressman Michael Michaud attended the hearing. Senators Snowe and Collins sent representatives.
This is testimony offered by our neighbors, describing the impact of “Free” Trade agreements on Maine communities and communities elsewhere, including our Sister Communities in El Salvador. Also included in today’s segment are Representative Mike Michaud’s remarks at the hearing, focusing on his proposed Trade Act legislation.
The commission is accepting written comments, which may be submitted to: Linda Nickerson, Bureau of Labor Standards, 45 State House Station, Augusta, ME or Linda.B.Nickerson@maine.gov
FMI about Congressman Michaud’s proposed Trade Act Bill: www.michaud.house.gov/
NOTE: Part 1 aired on Weekend Voices on 12/20/08, Part 2 aired on Voices on 12/23/08 and part 3 aired on Weekend Voices on 12/27/08. Listen/download at www.weru.org