Special update from NOFA's policy advisor, Dave Rogers! 
At 11am today, the VT Senate Judiciary Committee, after several weeks of work, voted 5-0 in favor of our GMO labeling bill. The bill contains no triggers and establishes a special $1.5M fund to cover implementation and legal costs, if necessary. Funds would come from Attorney General office proceeds from other cases and unrestricted donations from individuals, organizations, etc, both instate and out of state.
After a quick trip to the Senate Appropriation Committee to set up the fund, it will move to the Senate floor where it is expected to pass. Timing is uncertain but could be quite soon. Then it will go to the House for either approval of the Senate bill, or to a conference committee to resolve differences between the House and Senate versions.
Then it will go on to the Governor's desk. Just before the Judiciary committee voted, one member, a Republican whose vote was uncertain until the end, said, "Vermont is about to go where no state has gone before."
So, we are all quite pleased, but as we know, it ain't over 'til it's over! This is a great time to get in touch with your senators and let them know that you expect them to help pass this historic legislation.
Visit the Vermont Right to Know GMOs website to learn more and get involved.
At 11am today, the VT Senate Judiciary Committee, after several weeks of work, voted 5-0 in favor of our GMO labeling bill. The bill contains no triggers and establishes a special $1.5M fund to cover implementation and legal costs, if necessary. Funds would come from Attorney General office proceeds from other cases and unrestricted donations from individuals, organizations, etc, both instate and out of state.
After a quick trip to the Senate Appropriation Committee to set up the fund, it will move to the Senate floor where it is expected to pass. Timing is uncertain but could be quite soon. Then it will go to the House for either approval of the Senate bill, or to a conference committee to resolve differences between the House and Senate versions.
Then it will go on to the Governor's desk. Just before the Judiciary committee voted, one member, a Republican whose vote was uncertain until the end, said, "Vermont is about to go where no state has gone before."
So, we are all quite pleased, but as we know, it ain't over 'til it's over! This is a great time to get in touch with your senators and let them know that you expect them to help pass this historic legislation.
Visit the Vermont Right to Know GMOs website to learn more and get involved.