HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0225.007 2008-2010
April 8, 2009
RE: Hawaii County Resolution 81-09
To the County Council of Hawai'i,
My name is Jesse Keone Potter, and I am speaking in favor of Mr. Hoffinans
County Resolution 81-09, which opposes the 2009 State Legislature House Bill 1226.
Please pass this resolution and continue to fight for the right to protect the people of
Hawai'i. HB 1226 strips the right of future generations to decide whether genetically
engineered plants or animals is right and safe. The county and the state should reserve the
right to decide what is right and safe for the people of Hawai'i. County and especially
state laws can ultimately influence federal laws. If enough states pass legislation for or
against an issue, then it is only right and prudent for federal law to follow suit. HB 1226
would strip the people of Hawai'i of their right to decide in the matter of genetically
engineered plants. This is unjust.
I am personally against genetically engineered organisms. As an agriculture student of
UH Hilo and the current student body Vice President, I felt compelled to come and speak
on this issue as a citizen of Hawaii. Genetically engineered organisms poses health risks
that have not been properly studied. G.E. organisms should not be looked at as the
panacea. With the viruses, bacteria, and anti-biotic elements, along with the new gene
itself, science and society does not know how human health will be affected. Long-term,
quarantined studies need to be done before open testing or FDA approval is given to
these new organisms.
Please vote for Councilman Hoffman's resolution and protect the people of the State of
Hawai'i by defending their right to choose.
Aloha,
Jesse Keone Potter
1514 Waianuenue Avenue
Hilo, HI 96720
(808) 936-9610
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