Michaud Praises Trade Enforcement Action Against China on Illegal Auto Duties

Congressman Mike Michaud, Chairman of the House Trade Working Group, praised action sought by the Administration at the World Trade Organization (WTO) against China's unfair trade practices that seek to exclude U.S. autos from the Chinese market.

"I am pleased that the Administration is taking steps to force China to play by the rules they agreed to when they joined the WTO," said Michaud. "China has been violating international trade law for 10 years, and Americans are paying the price for it."

In February, Michaud and 26 of his colleagues sent a letter to President Obama expressing their concern over China's levying of anti-dumping and countervailing duties on imports from the U.S. of some vehicles with engine capacities over 2.5 liters. They urged the Administration to bring a WTO case against these retaliatory duties.

"We must use all enforcement tools at our disposal, including the WTO, to level the playing field for U.S. companies and workers. The future of the entire U.S. auto sector, including auto parts companies in Maine, depends on it," said Michaud.

According to the United States Trade Representative, the United States is pursuing this case to address concerns that China's duties on imports of American-made vehicles appear to be inconsistent with WTO rules. Consultations are the first step in a WTO dispute. Under WTO rules, if parties do not resolve a matter through consultations within 60 days, complainants may request the establishment of a WTO dispute settlement panel.

Michaud Announces Investment in Ellsworth Fire Department

Congressman Mike Michaud announced that the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded the Ellsworth Fire Department a $234,476 Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Hiring Grant.

SAFER grants provide assistance to fire departments and volunteer firefighter organizations to help maintain sufficient staffing levels. The grant awarded to the Ellsworth Fire Department will provide support for two additional firefighter positions.

"As municipalities face tightening budgets, additional support for first responders becomes more and more critical," said Michaud. "SAFER grants provide vital assistance that put more firefighters on the street and keep our communities safe."

In May, Michaud hosted a series of workshops in Auburn, Bangor, and Presque Isle aimed at helping Maine's fire departments navigate the FEMA firefighter grant process.