Bernard Sanders: “I am delighted to inform you that yesterday the Vermont State Legislature became the first in the Nation to require…”

“I am delighted to inform you that yesterday the Vermont State Legislature became the first in the Nation to require labeling of all milk products which come from BST-injected cows--and the Governor has indicated that he will sign this bill. Given the fact that the multibillion dollar Monsanto chemical company has enormous political clout, as shown by their ability to push this product past the FDA, this is an act of great courage on the part of the Vermont State Legislature and should be greeted with enthusiasm by family farmers, consumers, and all citizens who want to know how the milk they are drinking is produced. Mr. Speaker, the Government itself has acknowledged that Monsanto's BST will result in the lowering of family farm income and will increase the Federal deficit. Furthermore, in forcing cows to produce 20 percent more milk than they naturally do, BST significantly increases the rate of mastitis in cows and makes them sicker. My hope is that the U.S. Congress will follow the lead of Vermont, and pass national legislation which will require the labeling of all milk products from cows injected with BST. Please support H.R. 1906-- which amends the Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act to require that labeling. The people of America have the right to know how the milk they are drinking is produced.”