Today NAWG applauded the House Energy and Commerce Health subcommittee for holding an important hearing on the Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act and demonstrating the urgent need for legislation that would establish uniform, science-based food labeling standards.

“The current situation of individual states having unique labeling requirements is not workable or sustainable. NAWG supports facilitating interstate commerce by having a common labeling rule set by Congress. We are pleased the bill is receiving bipartisan support,” said NAWG President, Brett Blankenship, wheat grower from Washtucna, Wash. “In a time of limited bipartisan agreement, support for this showcases the fact that common sense, consumer-friendly legislation can still advance through the legislative process. NAWG will continue to support this important piece of legislation as it moves towards final passage.”

The Safe and Accurate Food Labeling Act will ensure that food labeling in the United States is consistent across state lines and based on sound science. The bill increases coordination between the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), guaranteeing that our nation’s foremost experts on food and agricultural safety are in charge of labeling decisions. The legislation also establishes a transparent, consistent GMO-free certification program, bringing clarity to those who choose to purchase GMO-free foods. Introduced by Congressmen Mike Pompeo and G.K. Butterfield, the bill has attracted 60 cosponsors.