Russian government approves harsh anti-tobacco ban for 2015

Russia has finally caught up with the rest of the world, and smokers now have a couple of years to give up the habit, before harsh anti-smoking legislation comes into effect during 2015.

Should this legislation pass, smoking will be prohibited in any public place, including restaurants and cafes.

Many efforts have been made in the past to impose smoking bans, without success. However, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev has been persistent in pushing for this legislation. Addressing ministers after the discussion, he said, “This is a big problem and we are too careless about it.” .... read more and watch video.

New bill could make biotech companies immune to federal courts

An amendment to the Agricultural Appropriations Bill would not just allow, but would require the Secretary of Agriculture to grant permits for planting of GM crops, even if a federal court has given an injunction against it.

In a move that would allow Monsanto and other biotech companies to do whatever they want, if this amendment is passed issues like damage to farmers or consumers, court orders, crop contamination or U.S. Department of Agriculture studies will all fall by the wayside... read more and sign petitions.

GMO 'Right to Know' campaign in CT fails -— law suit threatened

The G.E. foods bill in Connecticut has been stripped of it's labeling requirement due to industry pressure and threats of a law suit.

Connecticut tried and failed to have GMOs labeled.

Rep. Richard Roy of Milford, CT. is co-chair of the Environment Committee and the original sponsor of the bill HB 5117, An Act Concerning Genetically Engineered Foods, which was discussed in legislature today.

The bill had been overwhelmingly backed by the Legislative committee in March this year. Both political sides were in agreement over measures giving consumers more information about what they are eating... read full article.