It turns out CT is a still a revolutionary state on a number of fronts. That includes passage of the first state legislation in the county to require labeling genetically modified organisms (GMO) as ingredients, a monumental victory for the organic and pure food community.
The bill, passed by the Senate on Saturday and Monday by the House, includes the caveat that a northeastern region of at least four other states, or about 20 million people, need to pass similar legislation to make the practice viable. Unlike an earlier version, the final bill does not provide for an exemption for smaller farmers, which would have undermined the original intent.
“It’s phenomenal, this is the first state GMO labeling legislation to be passed in the nation,” says Eileen Hochberg, CT NOFA’s new executive director, hired in April. “Labeling GMOs in our food has been a priority of this organization since 2006. We are quite proud of our work and the work of many other organizations and farms, including GMO Free CT, Sierra Club CT, Food and Water Works and Food Democracy Now.”
CT NOFA has been around for 31 years, advocating that organic and sustainable methods of agriculture, land care and everyday living is healthier for us and the planet. The organization opposes the use of genetically engineered crops as well as chemically treated seeds, synthetic toxic materials, irradiation, and sewage; sludge in their farming; and all synthetic substances in all post-harvest handling. Its members include farmers, gardeners, land care professionals, consumers and businesses.
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