HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 141

(By Delegates Miller, Sobonya, Williams,

           Fleischauer, Shott, Manypenny, Ambler, Sumner,

             Storch, Ferns and Manchin)

Requesting the Joint Committee on Government and Finance to undertake a study of genetically modified foods, laws in other states concerning regulating genetically modified organisms, the appropriate labeling of genetically modified foods to enable consumers to make informed choices in the market place, and the threat to native plants and organic food growers posed by the spread of genetically modified plants.

    Whereas, There is increasing scientific evidence that indicates possible harmful effects suffered by humans and other animals that consume genetically modified foods; and

    Whereas, There is growing interest among consumers in obtaining organically grown, pesticide-free foods that have not been genetically modified; and

    Whereas, It is conservatively estimated that more than half the food on supermarket shelves contain ingredients derived from genetically modified corn, soy, canola or cottonseed, but not so labeled; and

    Whereas, The full impact on public health of wide-spread use of systemic pesticides, which are chemicals absorbed by a plant when applied to seeds, leaves or soil, and which cannot be washed off the fruit or vegetable into which they are absorbed, is not currently known; and

    Whereas, Without required stringent labeling protocols, it is virtually impossible for a consumer to be able to tell which foods available in the market are genetically modified or contain systemic pesticides; and

    Whereas, Many other states have studied and passed or attempted to pass labeling laws to identify foods that are not genetically modified; therefore, be it

    Resolved by the Legislature of West Virginia:

    That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance is requested to study genetically modified foods, the status of laws in other states related to identifying foods genetically modified or containing systemic pesticides, and the appropriate labeling of foods to enable consumers to make informed choices at the market place; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee include in its study, scientific data concerning the threat to native plants and organic food growers posed by the spread of genetically modified plants; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the Joint Committee on Government and Finance shall report to the regular session of the Legislature, 2015, on its findings, conclusions and recommendations, together with drafts of any legislation necessary to effectuate its recommendations; and, be it

    Further Resolved, That the expenses necessary to conduct this study, to prepare a report and to draft necessary legislation be paid from legislative appropriations to the Joint Committee on Government and Finance.