Passage of GMO labeling laws by US states could force action at federal level, says Minnesota lawmaker who is sponsoring her own such bill in her state

Nevin Barich

ST. PAUL, Minnesota , April 29, 2014 (Associated Press) – A Minnesota lawmaker who is sponsoring a bill requiring labels on genetically modified food believes passage of similar legislation by states could force action at the federal level.

Vermont last week became the first state to pass a bill requiring labels for genetically modified food, despite the opposition of the powerful U.S. food industry, which fears a patchwork of state policies.

Minnesota Public Radio (http://bit.ly/1nZbgHM ) says that at a recent Capitol hearing on the bill sponsored by DFL Rep. Karen Clark, the Minnesota Agri-Growth Council called genetically engineered crops the best and most environmentally friendly way to boost yields.

The national Grocery Manufacturers Association, whose members include Minnesota food giants Cargill, General Mills and Hormel, has urged policymakers to support requirements for labeling only if the Food and Drug Administration finds a health or safety risk.

Information from: Minnesota Public Radio News, http://www.mprnews.org

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