Two Florida Democrats are again trying to pass bills to label some foods containing genetically modified organisms. Similar efforts died last year in the House and Senate agriculture committees
House Bill 351 and its companion, Senate Bill 416, would require 25 raw fruits and vegetables to carry labels if they contain GMOs. Wheat, corn, cotton, papaya, rice, zucchini and squash would be among the targeted products. HB 351 is sponsored by Rep. Michelle Rehwinkel Vasilinda (D-Tallahassee) and SB 416 by Sen. Jeremy Ring (D-Margate). Both bills require the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to annually update the list to include produce that is grown in genetically modified form. The new requirements would take effect on Jan. 1, 2017. Any product containing recombinant bovine growth hormone (rBGH) to increase milk production in cows would also require mention on labels. It sets up a independent nonprofit to do testing and orders the state ag department to “prominently display” annually updated lists of so-called “high risk” fruits and vegetables on its website. The industries targeted by the bills, including Florida produce, are expected to aggressively oppose them again this year. There have not been any votes on either of the bills yet. Both were assigned to multiple committees and subcommittees on Wednesday.
