USDA
eo atl
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Chris Christie
Governor of New Jersey

125 West State Street

P.O. Box 001

Trenton, NJ 08625

Dear Governor Christie:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of New Jersey fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
ay
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Bruce Rauner
Governor of Illinois

State Capitol

207 Statehouse

Springfield, IL 62706

Dear Governor Rauner:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Illinois fully review the scope and effect of this new Federal
law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Bill Walker
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we.develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ae

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equa! Opportunity Employer


The Honorable John Kasich
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equat Opportunity Employer


USDA
|
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Dennis Daugaard
Governor of South Dakota

500 East Capitol Street

Pierre, SD 57501

Dear Governor Daugaard:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of South Dakota fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
ee
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Nathan Deal
Governor of Georgia

203 State Capitol

Atlanta, GA 30334

Dear Governor Deal:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Georgia fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Tom Wolf
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ii

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equa! Opportunity Employer


The. Honorable Matt Bevin
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ra

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


identical letters sent to the following:

Alabama

Office of Governor Robert Bentley
State Capitol

600 Dexter Avenue

Montgomery, AL 36130-2751

Alaska

Office of Governor Bill Walker
State Capitol

P.O. Box 110001

Juneau, AK 99811-0001

Arizona

Office of Governor Doug Ducey
State Capitol

1700 West Washington
Phoenix, AZ 85007

Arkansas

Office of Governor Asa Hutchinson
State Capitol

Room 250

Little Rock, AR 72201

California

Office of Governor Edmund Brown
State Capitol

Sacramento, CA 95814

Colorado

Office of Governor John Hickenlooper
136 State Capitol

Denver, CO 80203-1792

Connecticut

Office of Governor Dan Malloy
210 Capitol Avenue

Hartford, CT 06106

Delaware

Office of Governor Jack Markell
Legislative Hall

Dover, DE 19901

Nebraska

Office of Governor Pete Ricketts
P.O. Box 94848

Lincoln, NE 68509-4848

Nevada

Office of Governor Brian Sandoval
Capitol Building

Carson City, NV 89701

New Hampshire

Office of Governor Maggie Hassan
Office of the Governor

107 North Main Street, Room 208
Concord, NH 03301

New Jersey

Office of Governor Chris Christie
The State House

P.O. Box 001

Trenton, NJ 08625

New Mexico

Office of Governor Susana Martinez
State Capitol

Fourth Floor

Santa Fe, NM 87501

New York

Office of Governor Andrew Cuomo
State Capitol

Albany, NY 12224

North Carolina

Office of Governor Pat McCrory
Office of the Governor

20301 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699-0301

North Dakota

Office of Governor Jack Dalrymple
Dept. 101

600 E. Boulevard Ave.

Bismarck, ND 58505-0001


USDA
El
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Paul LePage
Governor of Maine

1 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333

Dear Governor LePage:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Maine fully review the scope and effect of this new Federal
law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Brian Sandoval
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Lea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
eae
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Charlie Baker
Governor of Massachusetts
State House

Room 360

Boston, MA 02133

Dear Governor Baker:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Massachusetts fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
—_

United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20260

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable John Kasich
Governor of Ohio

77 South High Street

30th Floor

Columbus, OH 43215

Dear Governor Kasich:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Ohio fully review the scope and effect of this new Federal
law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


Florida

Office of Governor Rick Scott
PL 05 The Capitol

400 South Monroe Sireet
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0001

Georgia

Office of Governor Nathan Deal
203 State Capitol

Atlanta, GA 30334

Guam

Office of Governor Eddie Calvo
Executive Chamber

P.O. Box 2950

Agana, GU 96932

Hawaii

Office of Governor David Ige
Executive Chambers

State Capitol

Honolulu, HI 96813

Idaho

Office of Governor C.L "Butch" Otter
700 West Jefferson

Second Floor

Boise, 1D 83702

Illinois

Office of Governor Bruce Rauner
State Capitol

207 Statehouse

Springfield, IL 62706

Indiana

Office of Governor Mike Pence
State House

Room 206

Indianapolis, IN 46204-2797

Towa

Office of Governor Terry Branstad
State Capitol

Des Moines, JA 50319-0001

Ohio

Office of Governor John Kasich
30th Floor

77 South High Street
Columbus, OH 43215

Oklahoma

Office of Governor Mary Fallin
Capitol Building

2300 Lincoln Blvd., Rm. 212
Oklahoma City, OK 73105

Oregon

Office of Governor Kate Brown
State Capitel, Room 160

900 Court St. N.

Salem, OR 97301

Pennsylvania

Office of Governor Tom Wolf
Room 225

Main Capitol Building
Harrisburg, PA 17120

Rhode Island

Office of Governor Gina Raimondo
State House

Providence, RI 02903

South Carolina

Office of Governor Nikki R. Haley
1205 Pendleton Street

Columbia, SC 29201

South Dakota

Office of Governor Dennis Daugaard
500 East Capitol Street

Pierre, SD 57501

Tennessee

Office of Governor Bill Haslam
Tennessee State Capitol
Nashville, TN 37243-0001


USDA
se a
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Jeremiah ("Jay") Nixon
Governor of Missouri

Capitol Building

Room 218

Jefferson City, MO 65101

Dear Governor Nixon:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Missouri fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
ais
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Terry McAuliffe
Governor of Virginia

Patrick Henry Building

111 East Broad Street, 3rd Floor
Richmond, VA 23219

Dear Governor McAuliffe:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Virginia fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S, Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable John Hickenlooper
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ra

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
aa
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Asa Hutchinson
Governor of Arkansas

State Capitol Building

Room 250

Little Rock, AR 72201

Dear Governor Hutchinson:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Arkansas fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Rick Snyder
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Lb

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
—_/!
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG Gf 2016

The Honorable Tom Wolf
Governor of Pennsylvania
Main Capitol Building
Room 225

Harrisburg, PA 17120

Dear Governor Wolf:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Pennsylvania fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bicengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Bill Haslam
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ra

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
eae |
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUb 0 1 2016

The Honorable Bill Walker
Governor of Alaska

P.O. Box 110001

Juneau, AK 99811

Dear Governor Walker:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Alaska fully review the scope and effect of this new Federal
law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Robert Bentley
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

i

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Sam Brownback
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Lidliitds

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
ae
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Kenneth Mapp
Governor of Virgin Islands
Government House

21-22 Kongens Gade

St. Thomas, VI 00802

Dear Governor Mapp:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the U.S. Territory of the Virgin Islands fully review the scope and effect
of this new Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives
related to the regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain
genetically engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the
national bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards
identical to the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Greg Abbott
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Le

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equat Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Jack Markell
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Jack Dalrymple
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Li

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Scott Walker
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
ee
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Gina Raimondo
Governor of Rhode Island
State House

Providence, RI 02903

Dear Governor Raimondo:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Rhode Island fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S, Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Charlie Baker
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Lie

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Phil Bryant
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ra

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
aa
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Jack Dalrymple
Governor of North Dakota

600 East Boulevard Avenue
Department 101

Bismark, ND 58505

Dear Governor Dalrymple:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of North Dakota fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
ace

United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Steve Bullock
Governor of Montana

P.O. Box 200801

Helena, MT 59620

Dear Governor Bullock:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Montana fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Nikki Haley
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Lidllhids

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equat Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Terry McAuliffe
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ee

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
eae
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Mark Dayton

Governor of Minnesota

130 State Capitol

75 Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
St. Paul, MN 55155

Dear Governor Dayton:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Minnesota fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
aia

United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Robert Bentley
Governor of Alabama

State Capitol

600 Dexter Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36130

Dear Governor Bentley:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Alabama fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


Mississippi Montana

Office of Governor Phil Bryant Office of Governor Steve Bullock

P.O. Box 139 State Capito!

Jackson, MS 39205 Helena, MT 59620-0801

Missouri Wyoming

Office of Govemor Jeremiah W. Jay} Office of Governor Matthew Mead
Nixon State Capitol Building

Capitol Building Room 124

Room 216, P.O. Box 720 Cheyenne, WY 82002

Jefferson City, MO 65102

AMS:LPS:ERF\DRM\ODA \Business Process\Correspondence(URS)\FY 16\ ODA
Correspondence\ Exemption Letters to 50 Governors 07-22-2016

Approved by Chief of Staff, Elizabeth Flores & £ >
Approved by Associate Deputy Administrator, Angela Snyder ~. 5
Approved by uty Administrator, Craig Morris A

|

NG RN a Ne
Ve ek


The Honorable Andrew Cuomo
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Li

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Pat McCrory
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

cil tes

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
Fao

United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

The Honorable Bill Walker
Governor of Alaska

P.O. Box 110001

Juneau, AK 99811

Dear Governor Walker:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

T would recommend that the State of Alaska fully review the scope and effect of this new Federal
law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Bruce Rauner
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Le

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Empioyer


The Honorable Terry Branstad
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


Kansas

Office of Governor Sam Brownback
Capitol

300 SW 10th Avenue, Suite 212S
Topeka, KS 66612-1590

Kentucky

Office of Governor Matt Bevin
700 Capitol Ave., Suite 100
Frankfort, KY 40601

Louisiana

Office of Governor John Bel Edwards
P.O. Box 94004

Baton Rouge, LA 70804-9004

Maine

Office of Governor Paul LePage
#1 State House Station
Augusta, ME 04333

Maryland

Office of Governor Larry Hogan
State House

100 State Circle

Annapolis, MD 21401

Massachusetts

Office of Governor Charlie Baker
State House

Office of the Governor, Room 360
Boston, MA 02133

Michigan

Office of Governor Rick Snyder
P.O, Box 30013

Lansing, MI 48909

Minnesota

Office of Governor Mark Dayton
130 State Capitol

75 Rey. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Boulevard

St. Paul, MN 55155

Texas

Office of Governor Greg Abbott
P.O. Box 12428

Austin, TX 78711

Utah

Office of Governor Gary R. Herbert
Utah State Capitol

Suite.200

Sait Lake City, UT 84114

Vermont

Office of Governor Peter Shumlin
109 State Street

Pavilion Office Building
Montpelier, VT 05609

Virgin Islands
Office of Governor Kenneth Mapp

Government House, 21-22 Kongens Gade

Charlotte Amalie
St. Thomas, VI 00802

Virginia

Office of Governor Terry McAuliffe
State Capitol

Third Floor

Richmond, VA 23219

Washington

Office of Governor Jay Inslee
Office of the Governor

P.O. Box 40002

Olympia, WA 98504-0002

West Virginia

Office of Governor Earl Ray Tomblin
1900 Kanawha Street

Charleston, WV 25305

Wisconsin

Office of Governor Scott Walker
115 East State Capitol

Madison, WI 53707


The Honorable John Edwards
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

i

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Maggie Haasan
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ra

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Gina Raimondo
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Mike Pence
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ba

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equai Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Jay Inslee
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ra

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Emptoyer


USDA
a
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Dannel Malloy
Governor of Connecticut

210 Capitol Avenue

Hartford, CT 06106

Dear Governor Malloy:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Connecticut fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
Per ra
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Nikki Haley
Governor of South Carolina
1205 Pendleton Street
Columbia, SC 29201

Dear Governor Haley:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of South Carolina fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA

Fe eal
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 0 { 2016

The Honorable Greg Abbott
Governor of Texas

P.O. Box 12428

Austin, TX 78701

Dear Governor Abbott:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Texas fully review the scope and effect of this new Federal
law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
aoa)
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Jerry Brown
Governor of California
State Capitol

Sacramento, CA 95814

Dear Governor Brown:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of California fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
meee
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Bill Haslam
Governor of Tennessee
State Capitol

Nashville, TN 37243

Dear Governor Haslam:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Tennessee fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Peter Shumlin
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Lex

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Chris Christie
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public,

Sincerely,

ea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Pete Ricketts
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Le

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Edward Calvo
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ez

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
feet
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Phil Bryant
Governor of Mississippi
P.O. Box 139

Jackson, MS 39205

Dear Governor Bryant:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Mississippi fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
Fae tl
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Pat McCrory
Governor of North Carolina
20301 Mail Service Center
Raleigh, NC 27699

Dear Governor McCrory:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of North Carolina fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Dennis Daugaard
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
me
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Rick Scott
Governor of Florida

PL 05 The Capitol

400 South Monroe Street
Tallahasee, FL 32399

Dear Governor Scott:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Florida fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
—_
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Pete Ricketts
Governor of Nebraska

P.O. Box 94848

Lincoln, NE 68509

Dear Governor Ricketts:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Nebraska fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of Jabels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Asa Hutchinson
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Li

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Kate Brown
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
aE

United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Mike Pence
Governor of Indiana

State House

Room 206

Indianapolis, IN 46204

Dear Governor Pence:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Indiana fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Mary Fallin
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

a

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
ena
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Brian Sandoval
Governor of Nevada

State Capitol

101 North Carson Street
Carson City, NV 89701

Dear Governor Sandoval:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Nevada fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable David Ige
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

a

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
ae
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Larry Hogan
Governor of Maryland

State House

100 State Circle

Annapolis, MD 21401

Dear Governor Hogan:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Maryland fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
Fc
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Maggie Haasan
Governor of New Hampshire
25 Capitol Street

Room 212

Concord, NH 03301

Dear Governor Haasan:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of New Hampshire fully review the scope and effect of this
new Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related
to the regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
aa
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Butch Otter
Governor of Idaho

700 West Jefferson

Second Floor

Boise, ID 83702

Dear Governor Otter:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Idaho fully review the scope and effect of this new Federal
law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Kenneth Mapp
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ra

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Empioyer


The Honorable Mark Dayton
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Ziclibdiehes

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
ed
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Gary Herbert
Governor of Utah

State Capitol

Suite 200

Salt Lake City, UT 84114

Dear Governor Herbert:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Utah fully review the scope and effect of this new Federal
law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Susana Martinez
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ile

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Gary Herbert
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Ei

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
oa

United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Matt Bevin
Governor of Kentucky

700 Capital Avenue

Suite 100

Frankfort, KY 40601

Dear Governor Bevin:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Kentucky fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
aie
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable John Hickenlooper
Governor of Colorado

136 State Capitol Building
Denver, CO 80203

Dear Governor Hickenlooper:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Colorado fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Jeremiah ("Jay") Nixon
Page 2

Thank you fer your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Jerry Brown
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ae

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Paul LePage
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

idlthidbs

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
eae a

United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable David Ige
Governor of Hawaii
Executive Chambers
State Capitol

Honolulu, HI 96813

Dear Governor Ige:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

T would recommend that the State of Hawaii fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Rick Scott
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Ee

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
ae
United States Department of Agriculture,

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Doug Ducey

Governor of Arizona

State Capitol Executive Tower, 9th Floor
1700 West Washington Street

Phoenix, AZ 85007

Dear Governor Ducey:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Arizona fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
il
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Mary Fallin
Governor of Oklahoma
2300 N. Lincoln Boulevard
Suite 212

Oklahoma City, OK 73105

Dear Governor Fallin:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Oklahoma fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Butch Otter
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

ea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Dannel Malloy
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Lea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 61 2016

The Honorable Sam Brownback
Governor of Kansas

State Capitol

2nd Floor

Topeka, KS 66612

Dear Governor Brownback:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

T would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Kansas fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Earl Tomblin
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Lie

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
ae
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Peter Shumlin
Governor of Vermont

109 State Street

Montpelier, VT 05609

Dear Governor Shumlin:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Vermont fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
al

United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Jack Markell
Governor of Delaware
Legislative Hall

Dover, DE 19901

Dear Governor Markell:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Delaware fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
Ecce
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Earl Tomblin
Governor of West Virginia
State Capitol Complex
Charleston, WV 25305

Dear Governor Tomblin:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of West Virginia fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Bill Walker
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
aa)
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 0.1 2016

The Honorable Andrew Cuomo
Governor of New York

State Capitol

Albany, NY 12224

Dear Governor Cuomo:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of New York fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
ae
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Kate Brown
Governor of Oregon

900 Court Street, NE
Room 254

Salem, OR 97301

Dear Governor Brown:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Oregon fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Nathan Deal
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public,

Sincerely,

ea

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
sid ool
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Matthew Mead
Governor of Wyoming

State Capitol

200 West 24th Street
Cheyenne, WY 82002

Dear Governor Mead:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Wyoming fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
as

United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Terry Branstad
Governor of lowa

State Capitol

1007 East Grand Avenue

Des Moines, IA 50322

Dear Governor Branstad:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Iowa fully review the scope and effect of this new Federal
law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Steve Bullock
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

Cktibods

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


USDA
ae |
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Scott Walker
Governor of Wisconsin

115 East State Capitol

P.O. Box 7863

Madison, WI 53707

Dear Governor Walker:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Wisconsin fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
Pal
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 61 2016

The Honorable John Edwards
Governor of Louisiana

P.O. Box 94004

Baton Rouge, LA 70804

Dear Governor Edwards:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Louisiana fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
ro al
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Edward Calvo
Governor of Guam

Executive Chamber

P.O. Box 2950

Hagatna, GU 96932

Dear Governor Calvo:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the U.S. Territory of Guam fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


USDA
eae]
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Susana Martinez
Governor of New Mexico

State Capitol

Fourth Floor

Santa Fe, NM 87501

Dear Governor Martinez:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of New Mexico fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients, Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Doug Ducey
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public,

Sincerely,

ra

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equa! Opportunity Employer


USDA
cal
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C. 20250

AUG 0 1 2016

The Honorable Jay Inslee
Governor of Washington
P.O. Box 40002
Olympia, WA 98504

Dear Governor Inslee:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Washington fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.


The Honorable Larry Hogan.
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

i

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equal Opportunity Employer


The Honorable Matthew Mead
Page 2

Thank you for your consideration of this matter. The Department looks forward to working with
you as we develop a program that serves the needs of the American public.

Sincerely,

be

Edward Avalos
Under Secretary
Marketing and Regulatory Programs

An Equa! Opportunity Employer


USDA
|
United States Department of Agriculture

Office of the Secretary
Washington D.C, 20250

AUG 01 2016

The Honorable Rick Snyder
Governor of Michigan

P.O. Box 30013

Lansing, MI 48909

Dear Governor Snyder:

On July 29, 2016, President Obama signed into law an Act amending the Agricultural Marketing
Act of 1946 (Act), 7 U.S.C. § 1621 et seq., which provides for a national bioengineered food
disclosure standard. Among other things, the Act requires the Secretary of Agriculture to
establish a national disclosure standard for bioengineered foods, including a mandatory
disclosure of foods that contain bioengineering. This new law represents the first nationwide
bioengineering labeling program.

I would like to call your attention to the preemption sections in this new law, which became
effective upon enactment. Sections 293(e) and 295(b) provide that no State may directly or
indirectly establish or continue with any food or seed requirement relating to the labeling or
disclosure of whether the food or seed is genetically engineered or was developed or produced
using genetic engineering, including any requirement for claims that a food or seed is or contains
an ingredient that was developed by or produced using genetic engineering. The Congress of the
Unites States included these provisions as an integral part of bringing uniformity, consistency,
and clarity to biotechnology disclosures across the nation.

I would recommend that the State of Michigan fully review the scope and effect of this new
Federal law in advance of taking any action or considering any new state initiatives related to the
regulation of labels for foods that are genetically engineered or that contain genetically
engineered ingredients. Once the U.S. Department of Agriculture promulgates the national
bioengineered food disclosure standard, the Act allows your state to adopt standards identical to
the national bioengineered food disclosure standard.