Sacramento – Assemblymember Anna Caballero today won unanimous support for her measure that asks Congress to fund research on the causes of E coli contamination of leafy green vegetables. 

The resolution passed the state Assembly today on a vote of 63-0, continuing the unanimous support that the measure received in an earlier vote in the Assembly and in the Senate. 

Asm. Caballero introduced the measure last February, soon after assuming office as a representative of the 28th Assembly District.

“From Day One it’s been clear to me that we needed more research to tell us how the E coli contamination of leafy green vegetables occurred,” said Caballero.  “There were all kinds of theories, many involving expensive changes for growers and processors.

“But it makes no sense to me to require strategies that may not work.  Growers and consumers both deserve solid information about how to prevent contamination.  That’s the focus of my legislation.” 

Caballero earlier had sent copies of the resolution to Congressman Sam Farr (D-Salinas) to ensure coordination of effort between by both state and federal representatives of Salinas growers and processors. 

In April Caballero abandoned another of her bills that would have provided state funds for E coli research at U.C. Davis, after the university and the California Department of Food and Agriculture moved to adopt her proposal.

The Assembly resolution will now be sent to all members of Congress.  Caballero also plans to send separate copies to all members of the California congressional delegation.