New York Lawmakers Pass Pivotal Food Safety Bill

ALBANY, N.Y. – Lawmakers in New York state today passed legislation protecting New Yorkers from toxic food chemicals, advancing the bill for the governor’s signature.

The New York Assembly’s 106-32 vote to pass the bill today was the final step needed after the state Senate approved the legislation March 23 in a unanimous 60-0 vote.

The Food Safety and Chemical Disclosure Act (A.1556F/S.1239F) would, if enacted, ban three harmful substances from food manufactured, distributed or sold in the state. It would also require companies to make new disclosures about chemicals added to food without stringent review.

“New York is stepping up where Washington has slowed down,” said Jessica Hernandez, Environmental Working Group’s legislative director.

“This bill will increase transparency and protect consumers from toxic chemicals in New York’s food supply. Without federal action, it’s up to the states to keep us safe from harmful additives in the foods we eat and feed to our families,” she added.