Mississippi House Bill HB1039

Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/17/25
• Refer: 1/17/25
• Failed: 2/4/25

Caption

Food labeling; require any food containing an mRNA vaccines to be clearly and conspicuously labeled.

Impact

If enacted, HB 1039 will specifically impact statutes concerning food safety and labeling standards. It will create a legal framework under which food products can no longer be marketed without explicit labeling if they contain any mRNA vaccine component. This may lead to significant changes in the production and marketing processes for food companies in Mississippi, as compliance will require adjustments to labeling practices to adhere to the new regulations. Additionally, the bill allows for the labeling of products as 'mRNA free,' thereby providing a choice for consumers wary of vaccine-related ingredients.

Summary

House Bill 1039 seeks to amend the Mississippi Code to regulate food labeling concerning the presence of messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) vaccines or materials in food products. The bill mandates that any food containing such vaccines must have clear and conspicuous labeling notifying consumers of their presence. This legislation responds to increasing consumer awareness and concerns regarding mRNA technology and its implications in the food supply. The intended effect is to empower consumers with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions about their food consumption, particularly as it relates to vaccines and biotechnology.

Contention

The bill has generated discussions on both sides of the aisle regarding its necessity and potential ramifications. Proponents argue that it is a critical step in enhancing consumer awareness and safety, particularly in an era of rapid advancements in food technology. Meanwhile, opponents raise concerns about the potential for misinformation and stigma against foods that utilize biotechnology. They argue that such labeling may lead to unnecessary consumer fear surrounding safe and effective products, questioning if the legislation may inadvertently harm the agricultural sector.