CONGRESS FOR VOTERS

DemocratBill · H.R. 10548· House(119-HR-10548)

To amend the African Growth and Opportunity Act to exclude from eligibility each sub-Saharan African country that does not effectively enforce its environmental laws and fulfill its international environmental obligations.

Rep. Doggett
Age: 80 years
Texas
Introduced
9/24/2026
Last activity
9/24/2026 — Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.
Sponsored by
Lloyd Doggett
Cosponsors
Democrat - 4Republican - 0
International Affairs
  1. Introduced
  2. In Committee

What this bill would do

This bill amends the African Growth and Opportunity Act to change the rules for sub-Saharan African countries to be eligible for the program. Under Section 1, countries must now effectively enforce their environmental laws, regulations, and other legal measures. They also must fulfill their international environmental obligations, including public health obligations. Furthermore, the bill makes a conforming amendment to the Trade Act of 1974 regarding the date requirements are in effect when the President makes a designation.

Yes

  • Does this better protect air, water and wildlife?+4

    The bill requires sub-Saharan African countries to effectively enforce environmental laws and fulfill international environmental obligations to remain eligible for trade benefits.

  • Does this give the federal government more power?+2

    The legislation increases federal oversight regarding the designation criteria for foreign countries participating in the African Growth and Opportunity Act.

  • Does this strengthen ties with allied countries?+2

    The bill encourages international environmental and public health compliance among trading partners, potentially strengthening multilateral standards.

The opposite

  • Does this make trade with other countries easier?-3

    The bill adds stricter environmental enforcement requirements for sub-Saharan African countries to maintain trade eligibility under the African Growth and Opportunity Act, potentially restricting trade access if countries fail to comply.

  • Would immigrants be better off under this?-2

    Stricter trade and economic conditions abroad resulting from lost program eligibility could negatively impact communities with ties to the affected countries.

  • Would farmers be better off under this?-2

    Changes to trade eligibility criteria could potentially disrupt agricultural imports and trade dynamics with sub-Saharan African nations.