RES 220 Draft 02 2008-2010 - Laserfiche WebLink

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WHEREAS, in 2002, Oregon added Measure 27 to the state's ballot that would have required labeling of genetically engineered foods, but the measure was defeated; however, it should be noted that a coalition of corporate giants spent $5.5 million to campaign against the measure; and WHEREAS, the following are the eight basic consumer rights, which were adopted by the United Nations' General Assembly in 1985: 1. The right to safety: To be protected against products, production processes, and services which are hazardous to health and/or life. 2. The right to be informed: To be given facts needed to make an informed choice, and to be protected against dishonest or misleading advertising and labeling. 3. The right to choose: To be able to select from a range of products and services that are offered at competitive prices with an assurance of satisfactory quality. 4. The right to be heard: To have consumer interests represented in the making and execution of government policy and in the development of products and services. 5. The right to satisfaction of basic needs: To have access to basic essential goods and services, adequate food, clothing, shelter, health care, education, and sanitation. 6. The right to redress: To receive a fair settlement of just claims, including compensation for misrepresentation, shoddy goods, or unsatisfactory services. 7. The right to consumer education: To acquire knowledge and skills needed to make informed, confident choices about goods and services while being aware of basic consumer rights and responsibilities and how to act on them. 8. The right to a healthy environment: To live and work in an environment which is non-threatening to the well-being of present and future generations; and WHEREAS, there is an ethical and moral obligation to provide accurate and non- misleading information in order for consumers to make an informed choice on whether or not to purchase and consume genetically engineered foods; and WHEREAS, a poll released by ABC News found that 92 percent of the American public wants the Federal government to require mandatory labeling on genetically engineered foods; now, therefore,