Thomas Sees China Vote Preceding Floor Action On CAFTA.

The article reports that after House Ways and Means Chairman Bill Thomas' panel voted to approve the Central America Free Trade Agreement, Thomas said he expects the House to act on a legislative package addressing China trade before it votes on CAFTA. Thomas is examining options to be included in such a package, including earmarking enforcement money for the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative for such priorities as intellectual property enforcement. Ways and Means members passed the CAFTA implementing legislation on a 24-11 vote but Thomas said he would hold the roll call open until 5 p.m. for the benefit of members who were not present at the markup.