Local and National Legislative Issues

Local and National Legislative Issues

Opponents of campaign to require GMO labels raise $12 million

Opponents of GMO labeling initiative flex financial muscle By Marc Lifsher, Los Angeles Times SACRAMENTO, Calif. » Major biotech companies and manufacturers of household food products, including Campbell Soup, General Mills and Coca-Cola, have pumped almost $12 million into the campaign to defeat Proposition 37, the California ballot initiative to require labels for genetically engineered crops and processed food products.

Bill banning GMO taro introduced by councilor

County Council Member Bill Medeiros has introduced a bill banning genetically engineered or modified taro in Maui County. The proposal received strong support Friday from Native Hawaiians, taro farmers and critics of GMO technology when it was introduced at the regular Maui County Council meeting. It was referred to committee for future discussion. Proponents of developing genetically modified taro have said research could help the plant resist modern pests and diseases.