Connecticut Passes GMO Labeling Bill

On June 4, 2013, Connecticut passed HB 6527 that requires the label of food products containing genetically modified ingredients include the phrase “produced with genetic engineering.” The law defines genetically engineered foods as “food intended for human consumption and seed or seed stock that is intended to produce food for human consumption.” However, the law will not go into effect until four other states, including one which borders Connecticut, pass similar legislation. Furthermore, the law will not go into effect unless the aggregate population of states in the Northeast region who have passed similar legislation exceeds twenty million. The law defines Northeast region as Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Numerous other states have introduced bills requiring labeling of genetically engineered foods. For more information on state legislation see the Center for Food Safety’s website.

Written By Clara Conklin - Research Assistant

Penn State Law- Agricultural Law Center

June 4, 2013