Thank you for sharing your views regarding the labeling of genetically modified food. There is nothing more important than the safety of the food we feed our families and transparency for consumers to know what is in their food.
As Ranking Member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I am committed to supporting the great diversity of American agriculture, including local food systems that focus on farmers markets, small farms, and organics. That is why I fought to make the 2014 Farm Bill the strongest ever for healthy fruits and vegetables, with a major focus on helping to get locally raised produce into local supermarkets.
I strongly support the certified organic label, which under the law cannot contain genetically modified organisms. Organic crops are one of the main focuses of the 2014 Farm Bill. The law established important assistance programs for organic producers with dedicated organic research funding, critical data collection on organic markets, and assistance for farmers who want to grow organic crops and apply the certified organic label to their products. It is absolutely critical that when families purchase organic products, they can trust that rigorous enforcement standards ensure those products comply with the label.
I support sound, scientific research on the safety of genetically modified foods, and I also support the ability for consumers to make the most informed choices about their food. I will continue to monitor this issue closely and keep your opinions in mind.
Thank you again for contacting me. Please continue to keep me informed about issues of concern to you and your family.