Leahy, Other Democrats Pushing National Labeling Bill

Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy and three other Democrats are pushing federal legislation that would require labeling of genetically modified foods.

The move comes after the Senate Agriculture Committee approved a bill that would block Vermont's GMO labeling law from taking effect, as it's scheduled to do on July 1.

The bill sponsored by Sens. Jeff Merkley of Oregon, John Tester of Montana and Dianne Feinstein of California as well as Leahy would give four options for labeling to food companies when they're selling products containing genetically modified ingredients.

In one, the Food and Drug Administration would have the authority to develop a symbol, in consultation with food manufacturers, that would clearly disclose the presence of GM ingredients on packaging.