Gov. Peter Shumlin has signed into law a bill to put Vermont on a path to become the first state to require labeling of foods that contain genetically modified ingredients.But the new law faces two big threats - a possible lawsuit from food manufacturers, and legislation in Congress that would bar states from imposing such labeling requirements.Maine and Connecticut have previously passed laws requiring labels on genetically modified food, but they don't take effect until other states follow suit. Vermont's law takes effect in July of 2016 without a requirement that other states go first.About 300 people and a live band turned out Thursday afternoon for the bill signing on the steps of the Statehouse in Montpelier.

Gov. Peter Shumlin has signed into law a bill to put Vermont on a path to become the first state to require labeling of foods that contain genetically modified ingredients.

But the new law faces two big threats - a possible lawsuit from food manufacturers, and legislation in Congress that would bar states from imposing such labeling requirements.

Maine and Connecticut have previously passed laws requiring labels on genetically modified food, but they don't take effect until other states follow suit. Vermont's law takes effect in July of 2016 without a requirement that other states go first.

About 300 people and a live band turned out Thursday afternoon for the bill signing on the steps of the Statehouse in Montpelier.