DEMOCRATS AND USTR BATTLE OVER PARAMETERS FOR CONSULTATION

Congressional Democrats are locked in a dispute with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative over guidelines for congressional consultation under the newly-passed fast-track provisions, with some observers accusing Democrats of pushing for consultation procedures that exceed compromises worked out under the fast-track bill. Meanwhile, Republicans in Congress are complaining that Democrats are continuing to push for language on enforcement of labor and environmental negotiating objectives that goes beyond what is provided for in the language of fast-track. Senate Finance...