Last week, SB 1381, California’s revived genetically engineered (GE) food labeling bill, passed through the California Senate Judiciary Committee. If enacted, SB 1381 would take effect on January 1, 2016. As the bill has moved through the legislature since it was introduced in February 2014, various amendments have been introduced that could significantly impact the food industry. A summary of some of those amendments follows.

Litigation Made Easier -

Perhaps the most noticeable change in the bill is an expansion of the enforcement provision. As originally drafted, the enforcement provisions of SB 1381 closely resembled those of California’s notorious Proposition 65. One noted distinction was the requirement of an injury in order for citizens to bring suit.