The US House of Representatives passed “The Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015,” the Trade Promotion Authority (TPA-2015) bill, by a vote of 218-208 last week.

The US Senate is expected to vote on the bill this week.

US Trade Representative Michael Froman said the vote was an important step towards creating more opportunities for workers and farmers in the US.

“While more work remains, bipartisan majorities in both the House and the Senate have now voted in favor of Trade Promotion Authority to move forward with deals that will strengthen the middle class and support more good jobs here at home,” he said. “Through TPA, Congress is providing its marching orders on trade.  We look forward to working with Congress to renew a job training program that helps American workers compete and win.”

The International Dairy Foods Association (IDFA) applauded the vote.

 “This legislation will help to open new markets for US dairy products, boost US economic growth and support well-paying American jobs,” said Connie Tipton, president and CEO of IDFA. “The US dairy industry will continue to grow and prosper with increased trade opportunities, and TPA is critical to ensuring that U.S. dairy companies receive the best deal in future trade agreements.”

IDFA says it is seeking “comprehensive and significant market assess” for dairy exports from the two trade agreements—the Trans-Pacific Partnership and the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership—currently in negotiation.

 The American Frozen Food Institute also expressed its approval of the bill which it says will provide new economic opportunities and jobs for US workers while opening new markets for food and beverages and expanding those already in existence.