Governor signs Vermont GMO labeling law | Food and Environment Reporting Network

Gov Peter Shumlin signed the first-in-the-nation state law requiring labels on foods made with genetically engineered ingredients. The law takes effect on July 1, 2016, and a court challenge is expected from foodmakers and seed companies. “‘Vermonters will have the right to know what’s in their food,’ Shumlin told cheering supporters in a speech on the state House steps.” according to Reuters.

A news release from Shumlin’s office included a link for donations to the Food Fight Fund, created as part of the label law, to defend the legislation. The Grocery Manufacturers Association said GMO foods are safe and there is no need to label them so, “in the coming weeks (we) will file suit in federal court against the state of Vermont to overturn the law.”

The food industry also backs a U.S. House bill that would overrule state laws and keep GMO labeling voluntary. Chances of action on it, or bills to for a federal mandate for labels, seem slim this year.