Food Safety Bill Falls On Suspension Vote

Perhaps H.R. 2749 was more controversial than the House Majority Whip's office anticipated? Maybe the convergence of different farm interest groups and their voice on Capitol Hill was more influential than one might think? Whatever the reason, H.R. 2749, the Food Safety Enhancement Act failed to garner the necessary 2/3s vote of members voting and present in favor of the bill,which is required when legislation is brought to the House floor for a vote under the Suspension of the Rules.

However, the legislation did have enough Yea votes to pass under regular rules, so those against the legislation still have their work cut out for them. H.R. 2749 received 280 Yea votes (230 from Democrats and 50 from Republicans) and 150 Nay votes (23 from Democrats and 127 from Republicans). To see a break down of the vote from the Clerk of the House click here.

To see previous Ag and Food Law Blog posts on this issue click here.

Posted: 07/29/09