Farm bill: Senate rejects GMO labeling amendment

The Senate has overwhelmingly rejected an amendment allowing states to require labeling of genetically modified foods.

The amendment by Vermont independent Sen. Bernie Sanders tried to clarify that states can require the labels. Both the Vermont House and Connecticut Senate voted this month to make food companies declare genetically modified ingredients on their packages.

The Senate amendment was rejected Thursday on a 71-27 vote.

Opponents are from farm states that use a lot of genetically modified crops. They say the government should leave the issue to the Food and Drug Administration, which does not require the labeling. They say it would be was expensive for food companies and therefore consumers.

© 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.