Biotechnology Resolution Exposed

The Biotechnology Resolution was adopted by ALEC's Natural Resources Task Force at the States and Nation Policy Summit on December 7, 2000, approved by the full ALEC Board of Directors in January, 2001. According to ALEC.org, the Resolution was reapproved by the Board of Directors on January 28, 2013. (Accessed on 7/29/2015).

ALEC Bill Text

WHEREAS, biotechnology refers to any technique that uses living organisms or parts thereof to make or modify a product or plants, animals, or microorganisms for specific uses and has been used by humankind for thousands of years to improve plant, animals and microorganisms.

WHEREAS, in the last three decades scientific advances in molecular biology have resulted in what is known as recombinant DNA technology or “genetic engineering” with the ability to readily move genetic material between more distantly related organisms.

WHEREAS, pest and disease resistant crops developed through biotechnology will preserve and improve the environment by reducing the need for herbicides and pesticides.

WHEREAS, modern biotechnology is being used to increase the productivity of crops and livestock, to improve the quality of life by developing new high-yielding crops that require fewer inputs and conserve natural resources, to increase the food supply for a rapidly increasing human population, to produce more nutritious foods with longer shelf lives and to continue to provide consumers with high-quality, low-cost food products.

WHEREAS, further advances in modern biotechnology may result in improved crops, for example, that combat vitamin and mineral deficiencies that afflict hundreds of millions people worldwide or that can be used to produce life-saving vaccines and biodegradable plastics.

WHEREAS, federal law requires that all foods and food ingredients, whether produced by traditional or modern biotechnology, must be extensively reviewed for safety by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and meet the provisions of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetics Act before they can be sold to consumers.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT: ALEC supports the responsible use of the beneficial qualities of biotechnology such as pharmaceuticals, anti-immune disease control, biodegradable plastics, and other potential benefits to people in their states, the nation, the world and the global environment through high-yield agricultural production.

Adopted by the Natural Resources Task Force at the States and Nation Policy Summit, December 7, 2000.

Approved by the full ALEC Board of Directors January, 2001.