Fast-Track Trade Authority Extension

Members of the Senate debated S.Res. 78, legislation that would prevent the extension of fast-track legislative authority for the president beyond June 1, 1991. The Bush administration has long held fast-track trade authority to be absolutely necessary for trade negotiations with other countries, particularly concerning the proposed North American Free Trade agreement and the Uruguay Round of trade negotiations. Fast-track trade authority would allow the president to submit trade legislation to Congress that must be considered and voted upon within a certain period of time without congressional amendments. Opponents of the proposed North American Free Trade agreement opposed the extension of fast-track authority, claiming it lessened the ability of Congress to affect legislation within its own authority. The Senate voted down the resolution in a 36-95 vote. close