On the recordMay 24, 2012
I ask for support of the amendment that is before us. This is an amendment that will actually strengthen the role of NOAA as the Federal agency that has oversight over our fisheries. Currently the FDA is considering an application for a genetically engineered fish, a fish that takes DNA from one salmon and an ell pout to accelerate the growth unnaturally. The FDA is not looking at labeling this fish. The FDA is not considering the environmental impact of escapement on this fish into the marine environment. What we are asking for with this amendment is as the FDA proceeds in its process that the agency that has oversight of our fisheries be allowed to participate and weigh in as to whether there are any environmental consequences that may come about as a consequence of a release into a marine environment. This is a situation where people have a right to know about the quality of their fish, where it comes from, what it is made of. What I am asking is for the agency that has oversight of our fisheries to have a role in this process. I urge Members to support the amendment. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The majority leader.
