Public Comments for: HB2633 - Misbranded food; manufactured-protein food products.
In Favor of Increasing Free Fishing Days in Virginia: Promoting Outdoor Recreation: Increased Participation: By expanding from three to six free fishing days, more people, including those who might not otherwise fish due to cost, can enjoy this recreational activity. This could lead to a surge in interest in fishing, particularly among families, children, and newcomers to the sport. Health Benefits: Fishing is an outdoor activity that promotes physical health through exercise and mental health through nature therapy. More free days could encourage a healthier lifestyle among Virginians. Economic and Community Benefits: Boost to Local Economies: More fishing days could lead to increased tourism in fishing-centric communities. Local businesses like bait shops, tackle stores, and restaurants would likely see an uptick in visitors on these days. Community Engagement: Free fishing days can serve as community events, fostering social connections and community pride. They could be part of local festivals or conservation days, enhancing community involvement in environmental stewardship. Conservation and Education: Education Opportunities: These days can be used for educational purposes, teaching new anglers about conservation, fishing ethics, and the importance of aquatic ecosystems. It's an opportunity to promote sustainable fishing practices. Conservation Awareness: By making fishing accessible, people might become more invested in the conservation of local water bodies, leading to greater public support for environmental policies and initiatives. Fair Access to Resources: Equity in Access: Fishing licenses can be a barrier for some, particularly for low-income individuals or families. More free days mean more equitable access to natural resources, aligning with principles of fair use of public lands and waters. Youth and Beginners: Free fishing days are particularly beneficial for introducing youth and beginners to fishing without the initial cost, potentially creating a lifelong interest in fishing and conservation. Administrative and Regulatory Balance: Minimal Impact on Revenue: While there might be a slight decrease in license fee revenue, the increase in participation could lead to long-term benefits like more license sales in the future as people get hooked on fishing. Regulatory Flexibility: The proposal still allows regulatory bodies like the Board of Wildlife Resources and the Commissioner of Marine Resources to manage these days strategically, ensuring they align with conservation goals and do not adversely affect fish populations. Conclusion: The expansion of free fishing days is a positive step towards greater public engagement with Virginia's natural resources, promoting both economic and health benefits while fostering a culture of conservation. It democratizes access to one of nature's most enjoyable activities, potentially leading to a more informed, engaged, and environmentally conscious community.
The Alliance for Plant Based Inclusion (APBI) is opposed to SB 2633. APBI is a coalition of well-known companies that advocates for plant-based food policies that afford consumers the greatest choice, clarity, and flexibility in the marketplace. Our members include ADM, ConAgra Brands, Kellanova, and Kraft-Heinz. Members of the Alliance offer both traditional and plant-based food products appealing to a variety of consumers. APBI’s focus is limited to plant-based foods and doesn’t include cell cultured products or those made with fermentation, insects or fungi. We believe that the bill may hinder consumer choice and clarity, and stifle innovation in the food industry. SB 2633 might prevent makers of plant-based alternatives from providing accurate consumer information as they have been doing for decades. It presupposes shoppers are being misled using traditional terminology when traditional meat terms help them understand the uses and occasions for the plant-based alternative. APBI opposes proposals that would restrict the ability to label and market plant-based products in a truthful way that makes it easy for consumers to understand what they are—and are not—purchasing. These proposals presuppose those consumers are being misled by the use of traditional meat terminology when, in reality, the use of traditional meat terms helps consumers understand the uses and occasions for the plant-based alternative. Misguided attempts to limit communication between companies and their customers are unnecessary, unfair, and in some cases unconstitutional. • Unnecessary: Studies prove that consumers are not misled by labels. • Unfair: These restrictive proposals would unfairly penalize a well-established food category for no reason other than to promote another industry. There is room in the market for everyone, and governments should not be in the position of picking winners and losers. • Unconstitutional: Bills restricting the use of traditional terminology raise legal concerns. Attempts to impose new restrictions run afoul of First Amendment protections that allow companies to label their foods with clear, non-misleading terms. APBI is dedicated to clear and accurate labeling for plant-based foods. Members use terms familiar to consumers not to deceive, but to accurately describe the texture, use, and nature of plant-based products. This approach works to enhance, not diminish, consumer understanding. Labels on our products explicitly indicate their plant-based nature. Today's consumers are increasingly aware and seeking plant-based options for a variety of reasons – health, environmental concerns, and ethical considerations. Consumers are not misled by our labels; on the contrary, they depend on them to make informed decisions aligned with their personal values. The Alliance for Plant Based Inclusion urges you to oppose SB 2633 as it applies to plant-based products. While the goal of ensuring clear and honest labeling is one we share and support, the bill could lead to greater consumer confusion.
Hi There, We are looking for installation partners in your area. NO COST TO YOU. We sell PVC Marble Design Panels to homeowners and contractors. When a homeowner buys panels but is not handy enough to install them themselves, we want to be able to recommend a vetted installation company. Please check out our website to learn more and to apply for partnership: https://gpe-partners.com We are looking forward to working with you. Marc Wagner COO Great Products Enterprise