Mississippi House Bill HB1365

Mississippi 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/20/25
• Refer: 1/20/25
• Failed: 2/4/25

Caption

mRNA vaccinations; prohibit use of in food products and livestock intended for human consumption.

Impact

The legislation would significantly amend existing statutes within Mississippi's framework of agricultural and food safety regulations. It would specifically alter provisions in the Mississippi Code to include clear definitions of mRNA vaccines, delineate the duties of inspectors overseeing livestock and meat inspection, and enable labeling of meat products as 'mRNA Free' if the source animals have not received mRNA vaccines. This change is poised to enhance consumer awareness and provide control over food safety in the marketplace, focusing particularly on the integrity of meat and meat products sold in the state.

Summary

House Bill 1365 aims to prohibit the use of vaccines developed with messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) technology in livestock, aquaculture, poultry, and any food products intended for human consumption in Mississippi. This bill articulates that any administration or inoculation of such vaccines shall be considered a misdemeanor. The bill is a response to growing concerns around food safety and the adoption of mRNA technology during vaccine developments, particularly in the context of consumer protection and animal health provisions under state law.

Contention

The bill has stirred a range of reactions within legislative discussions. Supporters argue that it is a necessary measure to safeguard the state's food supply and maintain transparency for consumers who may be relaying concerns regarding the safety and health implications of mRNA vaccines. Critics, however, denounce the legislation as an overreach that may hinder scientific advancement in livestock health and disease prevention. The ethical considerations regarding how far to regulate livestock health practices versus facilitating advancements in animal medicine remain contentious topics among lawmakers.