Connecticut Considers Labeling GMO Foods

HARTFORD, Conn. - Connecticut lawmakers are considering dueling bills that mandate special labels on food that contains genetically modified ingredients.

May 25, 2013 | Source: Maine Sunday Telegram | by

For related articles and more information, please visit OCA’s Genetic Engineering page, Millions Against Monsanto page and our Connecticut News page.

HARTFORD, Conn. – Connecticut lawmakers are considering dueling bills that mandate special labels on food that contains genetically modified ingredients.

The House early Friday passed legislation by a vote of 114-7 that would require food to be labeled as genetically engineered but only after five other states with an aggregate population of 25 million people enact an equivalent law. Two of the states must be either New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts or Rhode Island.

Earlier this week, the Senate voted 35-1 to require food that’s entirely or partially genetically engineered to include the words “Produced with Genetic Engineering” on the packaging. The requirement would take effect as of July 2016, or 2015 if several Eastern states pass similar legislation.

The legislature now must decide how to move forward with two bills addressing the same topic. The session ends June 5.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has thrown his support behind the House bill, with his office working with the leadership on the legislation.