FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 19, 2015

Contact: Andrew Jerome, 202-314-3106
[email protected]

WASHINGTON (May 19, 2015) – National Farmers Union (NFU) President Roger Johnson called the House bill to repeal the popular Country-of-Origin Labeling (COOL), “premature and reactionary,” noting that there remains ample opportunity for the administration, Mexico and Canada to negotiate an acceptable path forward.

“The best thing Congress could do is to step aside while the WTO process continues,” said Johnson. “As has happened with past disputes, WTO members can work together to find a solution that will work for them,” said Johnson. “In this case, such a solution must involve continuation of a meaningful process step – born, raised and slaughtered  – labeling requirement.”

“Unfortunately, opponents of consumer labeling laws have jumped on the opportunity to repeal COOL, when instead they should be spending their time and energy focusing on giving consumers information they want, which is a label with the origin of their food,” said Johnson.

“We need thoughtful leadership, not reactionary legislation,” he said.  “We urge members to stay off the bill.”

National Farmers Union has been working since 1902 to protect and enhance the economic well-being and quality of life for family farmers, ranchers and rural communities through advocating grassroots-driven policy positions adopted by its membership.

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