Murkowski Fights Back Against FDA’s Approval of GE Salmon
Senator Continues Fight for Mandatory Labeling, Announces Intent to Block FDA Nominee, Supports Stores Boycotting GE Salmon
Today U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski announced the next steps she is taking to fight back against the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) recent approval of genetically engineered (GE) fish for human consumption. Senator Murkowski has long been adamantly opposed to the approval of GE salmon, introducing legislation and inserting a provision in the appropriations process to require compulsory labeling of Frankenfish if ever approved for sale to consumers. Murkowski plans to push back against the FDA’s decision by advancing her efforts for mandatory labelling and blocking confirmation in the Senate of the nominee to be FDA Commissioner.
“I will not stand back and just watch these genetically engineered creatures be placed in our kitchens and on our tables without a fight. I am furious about this decision, but now I must do everything I can to make sure it is labeled—consumers have a right to know what it is they are eating,” said Senator Murkowski. “Genetically modifying salmon is messing with nature’s perfect brain food. The real thing is not only the safe choice, but it’s the best thing.”
Senator Murkowski next steps of action include:
Pushing Legislatively for the Mandatory Labeling of GE Salmon
- Senator Murkowski will reintroduce an updated version of her current legislation, S.738, to require further research into the risks and impacts of Frankenfish, and to address the more urgent need for mandatory labeling requirements.
- Murkowski will continue to work through the appropriations process to build upon the language she was able to include in the FY16 Agriculture, Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration spending bill.
Blocking Approval of the Nominee to be FDA Commissioner
- Senator Murkowski intends to block the confirmation of Dr. Robert Califf, nominee to be the next FDA Commissioner, due to the lack of cooperation and communication from the FDA surrounding their announcement to approve GE salmon.
Supporting Grocery Stores Who Pledge Not to Sell Frankenfish
- Senator Murkowski stands by Costco, Target, Safeway, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and all other grocery stores who are refusing to stock GE salmon.
(Senator Murkowski spoke on the Senate floor against genetically engineered after the FDA’s decision was made public. Click image to watch video.)
