Consumer Brands Condemns Passage of New York Bill S-1239

ARLINGTON, Va. - Consumer Brands released the following statement from John Hewitt, senior vice president of state affairs, on the passage of New York bill S-1239:

"New York families are already stretched thin at the grocery store, yet lawmakers just passed bill S-1239, which will raise costs and hurt local businesses. By creating a new state level reporting mandate for GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) ingredients, the bill adds unnecessary bureaucracy on top of existing federal standards that already ensure food safety. This legislation is projected to cost the state $21 million in its first three years and could drive grocery prices up by 12%. S-1239 is simply not needed. Consumer packaged goods manufacturers already follow rigorous, science-based safety standards to deliver the safe, affordable and convenient products consumers rely on every day. New York residents don't need higher prices, more red tape or added confusion. A consistent national approach to ingredient safety is the better path, avoiding a costly state-by-state patchwork."

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ABOUT THE CONSUMER BRANDS ASSOCIATION

The Consumer Brands Association champions the industry that makes the products you choose and the brands you trust. From household and personal care to food and beverage products, the consumer packaged goods industry plays a vital role in powering the U.S. economy, contributing $2.5 trillion to U.S. GDP and supporting 22.3 million American jobs.