Gabbard Cosponsors Genetically Engineered Labeling Bill

Kahului, Maui – March 23, 2013, Rally against GMOs. File photo by Rodney Yap.

By Wendy Osher

Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaiʻi cosponsored bipartisan legislation on Wednesday that would require labeling of genetically engineered food.

The Genetically Engineered Food Right-to-Know Act, would reportedly require the Food and Drug Administration to clearly label GE foods so that consumers can make more informed choices about what they eat.

According to information released by Gabbard’s office, more than 1.5 million Americans have filed comments with the FDA, urging it to label GE foods. She said national surveys have also shown strong support for such legislation.

“Food is a basic necessity in our everyday lives, and people have a right to know what is in the food that we eat,” said Rep. Gabbard in a press release announcing the introduction of HR1699.

“I have long been an advocate of labeling food containing GE products because consumers deserve honest, transparent information about their food. This legislation puts consumers first and will empower them to make informed choices for themselves and their families,” she said.