President Forces Vote on Colombia FTA

President Bush has transmitted the U.S.-Colombia Free Trade Agreement to Congress. Under the requirements of the fast track process, this move forces Congress to vote on the deal within 90 days. Unlike most legislation, Congress cannot amend the bill; instead, this is an up or down vote to approve or reject the pact. As an aside, unlike a treaty, this goes to both houses of Congress rather than just to the Senate for ratification.

This will likely prompt a fight as most Democrats have come out against the deal. Here is a news story on the move.

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