Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling Act; LABEL Act
Summary
The "Let Americans Buy with Explicit Labeling Act" (LABEL Act) aims to amend the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946 to strengthen country of origin and method of production labeling for fish. Specifically, it mandates that information about whether fish is farm-raised or wild-caught, along with its country of origin, be displayed conspicuously. The bill intends to ensure consumers can easily understand this information at the point of purchase.
Expected Effects
The primary effect of the LABEL Act would be increased transparency in the fish market. Consumers would have clearer information about the origin and production method of the fish they purchase. This could influence consumer choices and potentially impact the market share of different types of fish.
Potential Benefits
- Provides consumers with more information about the fish they are purchasing.
- Allows consumers to make more informed choices based on their preferences (e.g., supporting local fisheries or avoiding certain farming practices).
- May increase demand for sustainably sourced or locally caught fish.
- Could lead to greater accountability and transparency in the fishing industry.
- Potentially enhances consumer trust in food labeling.
Potential Disadvantages
- May increase costs for fish producers and retailers due to new labeling requirements.
- Could lead to confusion if labeling requirements are not clearly defined or consistently enforced.
- May disproportionately impact smaller businesses that may struggle to comply with the new regulations.
- Potential for increased prices for consumers if businesses pass on the costs of labeling.
- Possible trade implications if labeling requirements are perceived as discriminatory by other countries.
Constitutional Alignment
The LABEL Act appears to align with the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8, Clause 3) of the U.S. Constitution, which grants Congress the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the several states. By regulating the labeling of fish sold in the United States, the Act falls under the purview of interstate commerce regulation. There is no apparent infringement of individual rights or freedoms as protected by the Bill of Rights.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).