SB1146

THE CONTEXT: Vaccines containing mRNA rely on genetic information, instead of a weakened virus, to create an immune response. The State Veterinarian is located within the Animal Services Division of ADA and is responsible for protecting the livestock, poultry and aquaculture industries and the public by preventing, detecting and containing diseases ( ADA ).

WHAT THE BILL DID: The final vetoed version would allow products made from aquaculture, livestock or poultry to carry a label stating the product is "mRNA Free" if the aquaculture, livestock or poultry has not received an mRNA vaccination, require the label to be black text on an orange background and no larger than one-quarter inch in height, and specifies the general powers and duties of ADA do not authorize ADA or the State Veterinarian to require or administer an mRNA vaccine that has not received full approval of the U.S. Department of Agriculture or the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

WHY IT MATTERED: The practical reason for this bill was to give Arizonans and public officials a defined option for disclosure under state law. It would allow products made from aquaculture, livestock or poultry to carry a label stating the product is "mRNA Free" if the aquaculture, livestock or poultry has not received an mRNA vaccination, and would also require the label to be black text on an orange background and no larger than one-quarter inch in height, rather than leave the current rule unchanged.