The biotech labeling bill that passed the U.S. Senate now faces a quick deadline for swift action in the House. Congress goes on recess at the end of the week until September. The House passed a voluntary measure last year that greatly differs from the Senate version which passed Thursday.
Senate Ag Committee Chair Pat Roberts, who co-authored the bill, explains on the Senate Floor the bill is mandatory disclosure with several options.

Roberts has told House Agriculture leadership that the just-passed Senate version is essentially the last shot at getting a biotech labeling bill through the Senate. But the bill could face some opposition in the House because of the mandatory requirement.

Other Critics of the bill claim it’s not strong enough by allowing electronic smart labels. However, Senator Debbie Stabenow, who worked with Roberts to reach the compromise bill, says smart labels provide easy access to food information.

Any substantial change to the Senate’s bill by the House would likely postpone action on biotech labeling until both chambers return in September.