Rep. Potvin offered the following resolution:

            House Resolution No. 265.   

            A resolution to memorialize Congress and the President of the United States to continue funding for the Microbiological Data Program in the FY 2013 federal budget.

            Whereas, Initiated in 2001, the Microbiological Data Program (MDP) collects information on the prevalence of harmful bacteria in fresh produce. Data is collected from more than 600 food distribution sites in the United States and analyzed for the presence of Salmonella, pathogenic E. coli and Listeria. In 2011, approximately 17,000 samples were collected from cantaloupe, cilantro, hot peppers, lettuce, spinach, sprouts, and tomatoes; and

            Whereas, Michigan is one of the eleven states that participate in the MDP. The eleven states represent 50 percent of the nation's population and include all regions of the country. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Michigan laboratory collects and analyzes data in an effort to decrease the number of illnesses associated with consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables; and

            Whereas, The MDP's annual budget of $5 million allows the USDA laboratories, including the Michigan laboratory, to maintain experienced staff, keep abreast of new and changing technologies, acquire the most up to date equipment, and increase the number of samples tested each year. MDP tests have triggered 19 produce recalls in the past two years. A loss of funding could impact the timeliness of response to foodborne illness outbreaks; and

            Whereas, MDP provides an early warning system when pathogens are found in the food supply. MDP coordinates with public health agencies and allows early intervention by regulatory agencies when problems are identified. Through the MDP, the USDA and Michigan are able to promote a safer food supply; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That we memorialize Congress and the President of the United States to continue funding for the Microbiological Data Program in the FY 2013 federal budget; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the President of the United States, the Secretary of Agriculture, the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker of the United States House of Representatives, the Chairs of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Appropriations, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.