Democratic Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett issued the following statement after the House of Representatives passed Bill H.R. 6504, extending the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity Through Partnership for Encouragement (HOPE) Economic Lift Program and the Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) Act (HOPE/HELP), which renews this trade preference program for three more years, until December 31, 2028 :

"Today's passage of the Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act is a significant victory for Haiti and for strategic U.S. engagement in the Caribbean. The bipartisan support for reauthorizing HOPE/HELP demonstrates that when it comes to supporting our neighbors and advancing our shared interests, Democrats and Republicans can work together.

I am proud to have championed this legislation to support our Caribbean neighbors and foster economic development in the region. I want to thank Ranking Member Neal, Chairman Smith, Dr. Murphy, and my longtime friend, Haiti's Ambassador to the United States, Lionel Delatour, for their leadership in keeping the light of Haiti HOPE alive in the House of Representatives. The work of countless civil society groups supporting Haiti’s stabilization and any American manufacturers pushed for the renewal of this legislation.

"HOPE/HELP is a trade preference program with strong bipartisan support, that secures jobs for our allies. Haitian apparel utilizes U.S. cotton and plays an essential role in shifting supply chains out of China and into the Western Hemisphere.

"I continue to emphasize the importance of U.S. trade engagement in the Caribbean region. This legislation advances stronger bilateral economic ties, provides greater certainty for investors, and delivers the economic security Haiti needs to rebuild and emerge more prosperous and resilient.

"The legislation will now be considered by the U.S. Senate, and if passed, will move to the President’s desk for signature. We know Haiti's workers and families are counting on us to ensure this vital program continues without interruption."

SL/ HaitiLibre