Rep. Plaskett celebrates as US House passes bill to extend key trade program for Haiti

Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett, who represents the U.S. Virgin Islands, celebrated the House of Representatives’ approval of H.R. 6504, the Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act, which reauthorizes the HOPE/HELP trade preference program for an additional three years, through December 31, 2028.

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“Today’s passage of the Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act is a significant victory for Haiti and for strategic U.S. engagement in the Caribbean,” Plaskett said. “The bipartisan support for reauthorizing HOPE/HELP demonstrates that when it comes to supporting our neighbors and advancing our shared interests, Democrats and Republicans can work together.”

Plaskett, who championed the legislation, expressed gratitude to congressional leaders and Haitian officials for their support, including Ranking Member Neal, Chairman Smith, Dr. Murphy, and Haiti’s Ambassador to the United States, Lionel Delatour. She also acknowledged the efforts of civil society organizations and American manufacturers advocating for the program’s renewal.

The HOPE/HELP program allows Haitian apparel, made with U.S. cotton, to enter the United States duty-free, helping secure jobs and encouraging supply chain diversification away from China. Plaskett emphasized that the legislation strengthens bilateral economic ties, provides certainty for investors, and supports Haiti’s long-term economic security.

Haiti currently faces overlapping humanitarian, political, and economic crises. More than 60% of its population lives below the poverty line, with youth unemployment at 37% and widespread challenges including declining female literacy, lower school enrollment, and rising crime and gang violence. The apparel sector is vital to the country’s economic recovery, and the reauthorization ensures Haitian producers can continue building resilient futures.

The legislation now moves to the Senate for consideration before heading to the President for signature. “Haiti’s workers and families are counting on us to ensure this vital program continues without interruption,” Plaskett said.