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F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 6 POTATO GROWER 13 federal voluntary labeling. The fight was really a struggle between those who choose to trust science and those who choose to ignore it. Even with the FDA determining that GMOs dont present greater safety concerns than foods developed by traditional plant breeding efforts continue to establish state food labeling laws that do nothing to protect consumers but do increase the cost of food. The food industry effort was successful in passing a bill in the House but failed to get the Senate to debate a bill or to get lan- guage added to the Omnibus. The pressure for Congress to establish federal primacy on food labeling will continue as the implementa- tion date for state labeling laws nears. Potato growers also showed their commitment to improving trans- portation efficiency by their work to pass legislation to provide states the option of increasing weight limits on federal highways. Department of Transportation studies and sever- al pilot programs have clearly demonstrate that trucks weighing as much as 100000 pounds with the addition of a 6th axle operate more safely lower emissions and reduce road wear. A vote in the House to increase allowable truck weight lim- its to 93000 pounds was unsuccess- ful. While we face strong opposition from the railroads the data and the experience of other industrialized countries support the soundness of increasing truck weights. The potato industry remains committed to achieving that goal. A new congressional calendar means new opportunities and new challenges. On February 22-25 potato growers will gather in Washington DC for the Potato D.C. Fly In. They will put on their coats and ties go to Capitol Hill and get to work.