WASHINGTON, D.C. – Oregon’s Senator Jeff Merkley released the following statement after the Senate passed a bill that would prohibit states from requiring GMO labeling and instead institute weak federal requirements that would make it virtually impossible for ordinary consumers to access information about genetically modified ingredients in their food:
“This bill, the Monsanto DARK Act 2.0, is an assault on consumers’ right to know about GMO ingredients in their food. In a nation that is polarized on so many issues, here is one issue that Democrats, Republicans and independents alike agree on. It’s sad that instead of listening to the will of the people, Congress passes a special-interest bill that undermines the consumer-friendly GMO labeling nine in ten Americans want.
“This debate is not about the science of genetic engineering. It’s about the fundamental principle of transparency and the right to make our own choices here in America. Consumers should have the right to know what is in the food they feed their families, and to make their own decisions accordingly. It’s as simple as that. Today, the Senate has acted to deny Americans that right and put in place a confusing maze of disclosure requirements that will keep Americans in the dark.”
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