Congress Passes Controversial ‘Monsanto Protection Act’

Mar 27, 2013

Farm Appropriations Bill Includes a Provision that Protects GMO Companies from Litigation

The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a last-minute amendment to the Agriculture Appropriations Bill (HR933) – a provision that would protect genetically modified seeds (GMOs) from litigation over health risks. It is known as the Senate’s continuing resolution bill, which provides short-term funding to the federal government until the end of the fiscal year. The vote was 318 to 109 in favour of passing the Bill.

Opponents have dubbed it the “Monsanto Protection Act,” since the biotech rider would strip the federal courts authority to stop GMO seed crops from being grown – even if there is consumer health concerns.

The bill has a six-month expiration life and it remains unknown if this provision will be short-lived or if it will be extended.

Opponents to the bill, led by the group Food Democracy Now, have launched a campaign calling on President Barack Obama to veto the Continuing Resolution spending bill, but their request will not likely succeed, since the bill does include a significant amount of government funding.

Video: Planting Corn with Classic Allis-Chalmers Tractors | Full Field Action

Step into the field for a full day of spring fieldwork as this farm plants corn using classic Allis-Chalmers power near Arcanum, Ohio. In this video, the farm is working ground with an Allis-Chalmers 8050 pulling a Salford field cultivator and Brillion Culti-Packer to prepare the seedbed. Right behind, an Allis-Chalmers 7020 handles planting duties with a 12-row White planter, putting this year’s corn crop in the ground. You’ll see a mix of aerial drone footage and ground-level views capturing all the action, along with a voiceover that dives into the history and legacy of these two Allis-Chalmers tractors. It’s a great look at how reliable, older equipment is still getting the job done during spring planting season. If you enjoy classic farm equipment, corn planting, and real-world field action, this one is for you.