SENATOR COLLINS ASKS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE TO ISSUE COUNTRY OF ORIGIN REQUIREMENTS

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Senator Susan Collins recently expressed concern to the Department of Agriculture regarding publication of the final rule for Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) for wild and farm-raised fish and shellfish. On September 30th, COOL requirements will go into effect according to the Farm Bill of 2002. Although this compliance date is less than one month away, the Agricultural Marketing Service has not yet published the final rule for COOL.

Senator Collins writes:

"I have heard from seafood producers in my home state of Maine and they are very concerned that this final rule has yet to be published. Given the fines and penalties associated with the Country of Origin Labeling requirements, I am troubled by the fact that the final rule has not yet been published. I am worried that seafood producers and processors have not been given a fair opportunity to comply with the law. Further, I am concerned that this late publication date will undermine the effectiveness of Country of Origin Labeling, especially in the eyes of those required to enhance their labeling activities."

Senator Collins urged the Department of Agriculture to act to ensure that the final rule on COOL be published immediately.

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