Why Should Local and State Governments Pay Attention to the New International Treaties?
Jennifer Gerbasi and Mildred Warner June 2002 International trade arena is gaining a new audience. Traditionally a matter reserved exclusively for the federal government, state, county and municipal governments are taking a closer look at how the new generation of trade treaties may place greater demands on all levels of government. Governments are trying to understand the best way to enjoy the benefits from the markets and protections provided by the treaties while retaining local governmental authority. The Western Governors Association, the National Council of State Legislators, and the National League of Cities are a few entities that have made public requests to the US negotiating body, the United States Trade Representative (USTR) for clarification of or protection from the treaty obligations. Why are they concerned? International Trade Treaties Impact Local And State Laws As currently formulated, the new treaties may significantly restrain the authority of state and local govern
