Monsanto Protection Act Signed Into Law Quietly
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President Obama signed HR Bill 933 into law earlier this week, very quietly. It’s being called the “Monsanto Protection Act” because it protects genetically modified seeds from litigation, even if its later discovered that they pose health risks. Here are some of the troubling allegations about the new act.
- Before the law was enacted, the courts had the power to halt the sale of genetically modified seeds if there was a health concern. The “Monsanto Protection Act” effectively bars federal courts from being able to do that, no matter what health issues may arise concerning them.
- Many members of Congress were apparently unaware that the “Monsanto Protection Act” even existed within the bill they were voting on. HR 933 was a spending bill aimed at averting a government shutdown on March 27th.
- The provision should have gone for review through the Agricultural or Judiciary Committees, but it did not. The biotech rider instead was introduced anonymously and without the appropriate review.
- The bill only remains in effect for six months, because the spending bill is temporary in nature but some are concerned that the agricultural provisions, but the precedent could have lasting repercussions.
Some of the more than 100 companies and groups that have come out against the Act, include the National Farmers Union, American Civil Liberties Union, Sierra Club, Environmental Working Group, Stonyfield Farm, Nature’s Path, Consumers Union, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, and Public Citizen.
Read more at ibtimes.com, salon.com,and takepart.com.
