HOPE for Haitian Prosperity Act of 2023
12/20/2024, 9:06 AMSummary of Bill HR 5035
Bill 118 hr 5035, also known as the HOPE for Haitian Prosperity Act of 2023, aims to promote economic development and stability in Haiti through various measures. The bill focuses on increasing trade and investment opportunities between the United States and Haiti, as well as providing support for infrastructure development and job creation in Haiti.One key aspect of the bill is the establishment of a trade preference program for certain goods imported from Haiti, which would help boost Haiti's economy by increasing exports to the United States. Additionally, the bill includes provisions for technical assistance and capacity-building programs to help Haitian businesses improve their competitiveness and access to international markets.
The HOPE for Haitian Prosperity Act of 2023 also includes measures to support the development of Haiti's energy sector, with a focus on renewable energy sources. This would help reduce Haiti's reliance on imported fossil fuels and improve access to reliable and affordable electricity for Haitian citizens. Overall, the bill aims to support Haiti's economic growth and stability by fostering trade and investment, improving infrastructure, and promoting sustainable energy development. By providing targeted assistance and incentives, the HOPE for Haitian Prosperity Act of 2023 seeks to create a more prosperous future for the people of Haiti.
Congressional Summary of HR 5035
Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Enhancement for Haitian Prosperity Act of 2023 or the HOPE for Haitian Prosperity Act of 2023
This bill extends trade preferences for certain U.S. imports of textile and apparel products from Haiti.
Specifically, the bill extends through FY2035 the special duty-free rules for Haiti. It also extends through December 19, 2035, the duty-free treatment provided for certain apparel products assembled in and imported from Haiti.
Furthermore, the bill also expands the definition of core labor standards to include a safe and healthy work environment. (Generally, in order to qualify for preferential treatment, the goods must come from a producer that complies with specified core labor standards. Currently, these core labor standards pertain to freedom of association, recognizing collective bargaining rights, eliminating forced labor, abolishing child labor, and eliminating employment discrimination.)
Any interested party may file a request to have individual producers reviewed for compliance with the core labor standards and with Haitian labor standards and laws.
The bill also requires the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to provide technical assistance to Haitian government agencies, employers, labor unions, and others to increase and diversify exports to the United States.
