Virginia Legislation To Protect Against False Halal Labeling Introduced

In Virginia, state representative Kenneth C. Alexander has proposed a law making it a misdemeanor to fraudulently label products as halal if they do not in fact comply with Islamic religious law. Yesterday, the Virginian-Pilot reported that HB 153 would extend to halal food products the same restrictions against false advertising that Virginia now applies to kosher food. An identical bill, SB 349, has been introduced into the Virginia Senate. Another bill, SB 354, would require proper labeling of both kosher and halal foods in stores and restaurants. Barry W. Lynn, executive director of Americans United For Separation of Church and State said that Jewish and Muslim organizations should enforce their own dietary laws, and the state should not be empowered to enforce compliance with religious law.