Sent this to my representatives:
A 2 page piece about the GSE's and shareholder rights.
Senator Chuck Schumer
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand
Representative Richard Hanna
Received this in return:
Thank you for contacting me in regard to genetically engineered (GE) food and organic agriculture.
As you know, in recent years there has been an increase in the production of genetically modified and engineered foods. There is currently no requirement in the United States mandating the labeling of genetically modified foods. Federal food regulatory agencies generally believe genetically engineered foods to be similar to their original counterparts, apart from the modified genes. The agencies focus on the end product more than the process by which it is made because regardless of genetic modification, all foods must meet the same federal safety standards. As these final food products are considered "safe," labeling is not currently mandatory.
Blah blah blah
My family and I take pride in eating healthy and I share your concerns about being able to make an informed decision when choosing what to feed your family. Furthermore, recent research has shown that a large majority of Americans are in support of mandatory labeling of GE foods. During the 112th Congress I signed onto a letter sent by my colleagues Senator Boxer and Representative DeFazio urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to require the labeling of GE foods. While it is important to implement a requirement for the labeling of GE foods in a cost-effective manner that does not impact the price of food, I believe it is vital that we protect consumer rights and prevent consumer deception, and most importantly, allow families to be fully informed and in charge of their own health decisions.
Blah blah
The agriculture industry in the United States has developed to include various methods of agricultural production and I believe that these methods can co-exist in a manner that is of satisfaction to all stakeholders. The federal government has no place in choosing winners and losers in the agriculture industry and as Co-Chair of the Congressional Organic Caucus, I will work to ensure that organic American agriculture is well-represented in federal policy. Agriculture is a driving economic force in Upstate New York and I am committed to ensuring that locally grown organic food is available as a healthy, safe and cost-effective alternative to GE foods.
Rest assured I will keep your views in mind as relevant legislation is considered by the House of Representatives during the 113th Congress. While I am sure you may not agree with every vote I cast representing you, you will always know my rationale for the decisions I make on the House floor. I am committed to open government and transparency, which is why I post updates from Washington and explanations for final passage votes on each House bill on my Facebook page at www.facebook.com/reprichardhanna.
Unreal.....
