To authorize the extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to products of certain countries.
To authorize the extension of nondiscriminatory treatment (normal trade relations treatment) to products of certain countries.
Plain Language Summary
# HR 5917 Summary **What the bill does:** This bill would give the President broader authority to grant "normal trade relations" (NTR) status to countries, which means treating them the same as most other trading partners in terms of tariffs and trade rules. Currently, certain countries face trade restrictions under a Cold War-era law called the Jackson-Vanik amendment, which requires them to meet specific conditions related to allowing people to emigrate freely. This bill would let the President bypass those requirements and grant permanent favorable trade status to most countries, with three exceptions: Belarus, Cuba, and North Korea would remain excluded. **Who it affects:** This bill would primarily affect U.S. businesses and consumers by potentially lowering trade barriers with countries currently restricted under Jackson-Vanik, as well as those countries' citizens and businesses seeking to trade with the U.S.
It gives the President more flexibility in trade decisions without needing Congressional approval each year. **Current status:** HR 5917 is currently in committee and has not yet been voted on by Congress. The bill was introduced by Representative Carol D. Miller (R-WV) in the 119th Congress.
CRS Official Summary
This bill addresses trade between the United States and covered countries. Under this bill, a covered country is any country excluding Belarus, Cuba, and North Korea.Specifically, the bill authorizes the President to determine that Section 402 of the Trade Act of 1974 (commonly known as the Jackson-Vanik amendment) does not apply to a covered country. The Jackson-Vanik amendment denies normal trade relations (NTR) status to some current and former nonmarket economy countries unless they comply with certain freedom-of-emigration requirements. Under a provision of this amendment, the President may extend NTR status to a country affected by the amendment by waiving the freedom-of-emigration requirements or determining that the country is not in violation of those requirements, subject to an annual review.Additionally, the bill authorizes the President to extend permanent NTR status to a covered country.
Latest Action
Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.