On June 24, 2015, the Senate voted to advance a bill that will grant President Obama fast track authority to negotiate international trade bills, including the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). The TPP is a proposed free trade deal between 12 nations that, if implemented, would eliminate tariffs on industrial goods, agriculture and textiles, as well as harmonize regulations on intellectual property, technical barriers to trade, labor, and environmental standards between participating economies.

According to a release by the New York Times, “Negotiators will also move forward on an accord with Europe, knowing any agreement over the next six years cannot be amended or filibustered by Congress.”

The Senate passed the legislation with a 60-38 majority. The bill will now be submitted to President Obama for signature.

The NY Times release can be accessed here