"A far-reaching food safety bill that could give the government more power to prevent foodborne illnesses has become a target of advocates for buying food produced locally.

They worry the legislation's safety requirements could force small farms out of business.

The opposition of these "locavores" — advocates for buying food directly from the farm or closer to home — and owners of small farms has become a sticking point in the Senate, which was to vote Wednesday on whether to consider the bill.

Supporters will need 60 votes to proceed on the bill because Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., has objected, saying the legislation's $1.4 billion cost isn't paid for."

Mary Clare Jalonick reports for the Associated Press November 17, 2010. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"Could Food Safety Bill Clear Senate By Weekend?" (Food Safety News) [3]

"Long Wait for Food Safety Bill May Be Over" (The Hill) [4]

"Why Deficit Hysteria Isn’t Good for Food-System Reform" (Grist) [5]

"Food Fight: Will the Food Safety Modernization Act Harm Small Farms or Producers?" (Grist) [6]