Wilson, Cafaro oppose 2 offices

Wilson and Cafaro voiced concern about losing Ohio jobs to other countries.
By MARC KOVAC
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
COLUMBUS -- Local lawmakers voted against legislation offered on the floor of the Ohio Senate to create two new foreign trade offices, with both voicing concern about using state resources to support countries and initiatives that adversely affect U.S. jobs.
Senate Bill 80, sponsored by Sen. Robert F. Spada, a Republican from North Royalton in the Cleveland area, calls for the establishment of Department of Development trade offices in India and the People's Republic of China, at a cost of about 2 million.
The final vote Wednesday was 29-3, with Sens. Jason Wilson of Columbiana, D-30th, Capri Cafaro of Hubbard, D-32nd, and Sue Morano, a Democrat from Lorain, opposing.
Wilson took issue with trade agreements, such as the North American Free Trade Agreement and other initiatives that have led to an exodus of companies and jobs to countries such as the ones that will benefit from the legislation.
"Those are the people who are stealing out jobs from our country," he said, adding, "I want to know how we bring jobs here, not take jobs there."
Cafaro echoed those sentiments and voiced concern about growing trade deficits with India and China.
"I'm concerned that the emphasis is not on job creation for the United States," she said.
No opposition
Two other bills passed the Senate, both with no opposition from the floor.
The first, offered by Sen. Patricia M. Clancy, a Republican from Cincinnati, would increase the income tax credit allowed for Ohioans adopting children 17 and younger to 1,500 from 500.
The other, offered by Sen. Robert Schuler, a Republican from Sycamore Township in the Cincinnati area, would designate October as German Heritage Month.
Both were approved unanimously by attending members. All three bills next head to the Ohio House of Representatives for further consideration.
mkovac@dixcom.com.