GMO Bill Heads to the President

This week, the House passed S. 764 authored by Senate Agriculture Chairman Pat Roberts (R-Kansas) and Representative Debbie Stabenow, (D-Michigan) which, as amended July 7, 2016, establishes a national GMO (genetically modified organisms) labeling standard for genetically modified foods.  The bill now heads to the President who is expected to sign it.  The bill overrides existing state laws as well as barring state and local governments from passing future mandatory labeling laws for genetically modified food products.

The bill directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a process for disclosure of foods and ingredients produced through biotech genetic modification.  Small food manufacturers, would be able to direct consumers to websites or telephone numbers for the necessary information.

The bill provides three options to large companies for informing consumers if they are purchasing a GMO food product: 1. On-label information, 2. A symbol to be developed by USDA 3.  Bar codes or other digital means that consumers can scan with smart phones.

The bill can be accessed here.