New GMO-labeling bill to be addressed at hearing in Hawaii

The Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) has recently been made aware of a very poorly written and ill-conceived bill to mandate labeling of genetically modified foods in Hawaii. This last-minute proposal is the result of some of the most extensive, aggressive and intimidating activist tactics the industry has ever encountered, ARA said. The legislation, H.B. 174, will be heard before a joint hearing of the Agriculture and Consumer Protection committees in Honolulu Thursday, March 21, at 9:00 a.m.

It is critical that a groundswell of opposition is generated, via e-mail, to possibly counter the expected deluge coming from activists supporting this measure. The activists are driving as many as 300 to 500 e-mails per day to legislators in Hawaii. If legislation like this is passed in one state, there is always a danger that it could set a precedent for other states to follow.

ARA encouranges all ARA members with operations in Hawaii to express their opposition to this bill by close of business Wednesday. Time is of the essence since a hearing on the bill will be held tomorrow. 

Click here for a link that will take you to the Hawaii Legislature web page. Please enter bill number "HB 174" in the box that asks you to enter a measure to retrieve the corresponding hearing notice. Then you will have the opportunity to submit your name and email address, and check a box to indicate your opposition of this bill, H.B. 174. It is not necessary to provide any written comments to express your opposition.

Your voice in opposition will significantly help defeat this destructive measure that is of significant concern to the agriculture industry and the people of Hawaii. Please forward this information to others who will express opposition to the bill. 

ARA will submit a letter of opposition on this bill to the Hawaii state legislature today. We appreciate your attention and help on this important issue. 

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