Efforts to pass GMO labeling legislation in Vermont are at a critical stage.

After passing the Vermont House last May by a wide margin, H.112, An Act Relating To The Labeling Of Food Produced With Genetic Engineering, is now being debated in the Senate. It must pass both the Senate Agriculture and Judiciary Committees before it can be voted on by the full Senate; if it does not pass before the legislature adjourns this spring, the bill will die.

In the last few weeks the Senate Agriculture Committee has heard testimony from both supporters and opponents.

Now they want to hear from you.

A special Joint Public Hearing of the Senate Agriculture and Senate Judiciary Committees will be held in the Vermont State House on Thursday, February 6 from 6-8 PM.

This will be our best opportunity to show key decision-makers the broad public support for GMO labeling. In 2012 the State House was filled with Vermonters demanding GMO labeling. This hearing was critical to the passage of H.112 by the Vermont House. It needs to happen again to ensure that it passes the Vermont Senate and then moves to Governor Shumlin’s desk for his signature into law.  Vermonters want to be able to make informed decisions about what they eat and tens of thousands have expressed support for GMO labeling legislation. 

Head to the State House Thursday, Feb. 6th and stand up for your right to know.

You do not have to register for the hearing, but if you want to speak, make sure you get to the State House early so that you can sign up. Sign-up is expected to start at 5:30.

Visit the Vermont Right to Know Coalition’s Action Center to sign the petition or learn about more ways to get involved.

Courtesy of NOFA VT