Maine House Supports GMO Food Labeling Requirement

Legislation that would require genetically modified food products to include special labels passed the Maine House of Representatives.

June 13, 2013

AUGUSTA – The Maine House moved legislation on Tuesday that would require requiring genetically modified food products to carry special labels, reports the Bangor Daily News. 

Should the legislation become law, the news source notes that its success would depend on action “taken by lawmakers in four nearby states,” meaning it would only take effect if the four other New England states enact similar laws. The bill would require genetically modified food products carry labels that state “Produced with Genetic Engineering 

During debate, state representatives showed little disagreement about labeling genetically modified food products, notes the news source. “The consumers have a right to know,” said state Rep. Craig Hickman. “The people want to know what’s in their food, and they want to be able to make a choice that’s right.” 

Most of the debate focused on whether having Maine’s labeling requirement depend on four other states was the best path forward. “I think we should lead. I think we should do it on our own,” said state Rep. Diane Russell. “I believe we will be taking a stand against the corporatization of our food. I believe we will be empowering our consumers.”

Some however believed the requirement made the most sense. “We understand there are some legal concerns,” said state Rep. Amy Volk. “Allowing us to be part of a consortium of other states would help defray some of those costs and send a message to the federal government.”

Other states are also considering GMO labeling requirements. For example, Connecticut recently passed the first such requirement in the country into law. In May, the Vermont House became the first legislative body to pass a labeling requirement, which could take effect July 1, 2015, even if no other states pass similar laws, notes the news source.

In Congress, U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) introduced an amendment to the Farm Bill that would have states require labels on food or beverages made with genetically modified ingredients. The Senate rejected the amendment on May 23 by a vote of 71 to 27. 

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