USMCA – Passes Senate with bipartisan vote of 89–10

We agree with USDA Secretary Perdue’s statement on following U.S. Senate Passage of USMCA on a bipartisan vote of 89 – 10.  “The passage of USMCA is great news for America’s farmers and ranchers. . . (who) are eager to see the President sign this legislation and begin reaping the benefits of this critical agreement. “

Here are the eight Democrats, one Republican and one independent who voted against the USMCA:

• Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y.
• Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand, D-N.Y.
• Sen. Cory Booker, D-N.J.
• Sen. Kamala Harris, D-Calif.
• Sen. Ed Markey, D-Mass.
• Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I.
• Sen. Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii 
• Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa.
• Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt.

Below are some of the Key Provisions:

Increasing Dairy Market Access
America’s dairy farmers will have expanded market opportunities in Canada for a wide variety of dairy products. Canada agreed to eliminate the unfair Class 6 and 7 milk pricing programs that allowed their farmers to undersell U.S. producers.

Biotechnology
For the first time, the agreement specifically addresses agricultural biotechnology – including new technologies such as gene editing – to support innovation and reduce trade-distorting policies.

Sanitary/Phytosanitary Measures
The three countries agree to strengthen disciplines for science-based measures that protect human, animal, and plant health while improving the flow of trade.

Poultry and Eggs
U.S. poultry producers will have expanded access to Canada for chicken, turkey, and eggs.

Wheat
Canada agrees to terminate its discriminatory wheat grading system, enabling U.S. growers to be more competitive.