2006 Food Labeling Bill: Catering to Special Interests!
congresswatch | Public Health & Safety
The League of Conservation Voters informed the public on March 8 (www.lcv.org) that The U.S. House of Representatives passed controversial legislation, H.R. 4167, the so-called "National Uniformity for Food Act of 2005." Representative Michael Rogers (R-MI) sponsored this ill-conceived bill.
The National Uniformity for Food Act of 2005 requires a one-size-fits-all uniformity on warning labels and sets standards that wipes out current state statutes and regulations relating to food safety, sanitation standards for restaurants, and food-related investigations. "We are deeply disappointed the House of Representatives passed this sham of a food safety bill. This legislation undermines public health protections around the country by preempting state laws.” an LCV spokesman stated.
Supporters of HR 4167 champion the bill for allegedly creating a uniform set of standards across the country. In reality, the bill abruptly ends - and even reverses - years of progress in states that have worked to make foods safer, labeling more informative, and disclosure of potentially harmful ingredients mandatory. Despite public outcry, the bill passed the House, after quickly passing through the House Energy and Commerce Committee and sent to the floor without a hearing.
As posted in the March 7, 2006 report on the website www.newsinferno.com, “The imposition of a standardized set of rules at the federal level might improve food safety in some states that have lagged behind in adopting innovative policies; however, it would likely have precisely the opposite effect on regulations already in place in states that have made a conscious effort to implement higher standards of protection for consumers.”
This outcome results in creating a “lowest common denominator” for food safety, rather than creating a higher standard for food safety and food labeling. Standards are slackened for the food industry, leaving a most bitter taste for U.S. consumers!
Unfortunately, Montana’s Representative Denny Rehberg, voted in favor of HR 4167. He also signed on as a co-sponsor of this bill.
Taking Action:
Please contact Rep. Rehberg and ask him to explain his reasoning for weakening food safety standards across the U.S.!
HR 4167 is now poised to come before the Senate. Please contact Senator Burns and Senator Baucus. Ask them to VOTE NO on HR 4167!
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