The Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry is opposing a new regulatory burden that some lawmakers want to place on the state\u2019s producers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
HB 1169, sponsored by Rep. Holly Jones (R-Eureka), would require new labeling on products \u2013 including all food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products \u2013 that contain genetically modified material. Under the bill, any product that could possibly impact or introduce genetic material into consumers must be labeled with the words \u201cPotential Gene Therapy Product.\u201d This goes beyond all federal labeling standards.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition, companies that produce or sell these products would be required to disclose relevant reports and research upon request.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Missouri Chamber is opposed to this anti-business, anti-science legislation that would likely have a chilling effect on economic development in the state.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cWe believe folks being able to request certain research and knowledge about genetically modified material could require companies to disclose intellectual property that could impact their business and possibly give their competitors an advantage,\u201d said Phillip Arnzen, director of legislative affairs for the Missouri Chamber.<\/p>\n\n\n\n