Big Island News: Hawai'i County Council Proposes Resolution Opposing HB1226 "GMO Preemption"
House Bill 1226 passed Chairman Clift Tsuji's Agriculture committee and 2 floor votes and moved on to the Senate. All State Representatives from Hawai'i island voted FOR this bill. The bill says that No County or State Agency has the right to discriminate against genetically engineered (GE) agricultural crops by passing local or state ordinances that would protect farmers, crops, and citizens. This includes future labeling. This is called a "preemption" bill. No State has passed such a restrictive bill. Among other things, it prohibits ALL future rights over any regulation of GE corps and labeling at the County or State level, and is putting regulation in the hands of the federal agency USDA/APHIS. APHIS is currently in the process of creating a new regulatory structure for GE crops and is moving toward "deregulation" and is suspending the current but weak system of notification for experimental GE field trial permits. Whether you agree with GE or not, to remove the ability of our County Council to protect the people and lands of Hawai'i Island is heavy-handed, undemocratic, and dangerous. It is disheartening to see the House selling out our farmers to corporate interests. On Friday March 20, the Maui County Council passed 9-0 a Resolution opposing HB1226. The Kauai Council is currently contemplating their statement. Here on Hawai'i Island, Councilman Pete Hoffmann has written a Resolution opposing HB1226 that will be heard before the full Council at the Hilo Council Chambers on Wednesday April 8. Public testimony (3 minutes) may be given in person, or just come, listen, and show support. Questions - contact nancyredfeather@hawaii.rr.com or 322-2801.
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