Today, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ-09) released the following statement in support of the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act (H.R. 1599):

“Today, the House of Representatives voted on the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act, a bill I voted in favor of.  I understand that many people feel very strongly about the labeling of genetically modified organisms (GMO) on food products, and I voted for three amendments which, had they passed, would have improved this legislation.

“In the lead-up to this vote I heard from many constituents on both sides of the issue. Although the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not found any health risks associated with GMOs, I understand that many Americans support labeling. I believe that H.R. 1599 provides a positive path forward on GMO labeling. New Jersey and 48 other states do not label products for GMO. This legislation would for the first time create a national standard for labeling a product “non-GMO,” which would ensure truth-in-labeling. Although this standard is voluntary, I believe that it can provide consumers with the information they need to make food choices for themselves and their families without causing disruption in the distribution of our food supply.”

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