HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0225.037 2008-2010
f' lawai`i }'lar%sts e4' Skippers Association
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Reso 81-09, Urges Opposition to HB 1226hd1, Relating to Genetically Modiri&- PlantOrganisms
Hawaii Island County Council, Weds, April 8, 2009 o I N
10:00 am - Ben Franklin Building, Hilo :.a
Position: Oppose cn
Chair Yoshimoto and Members of the Hawaii County Council:
My name is Eric Tanouye, President of the Hawaii Florists and Shippers Association (HFSA).
HFSA was founded in 1948, as a statewide network of professional florists, growers, nurseries,
shippers and support industries directly connected to Hawaii's horticultural industry. Hawaii
Agricultural Statistics Service (HASS) reported for 2007 that our industry did approximately 107
million in revenue. Approximately 60% of this revenue comes from the Big Island. The majority
of our members are small business, bringing in revenue to Hawaii; that is infused into our local
economy.
The HFSA strongly supports the tool of agricultural biotechnology. Responsible biotechnology
provides hope for a better future. In the floral industry, being first with innovation and novel
plants is key to competing in a global marketplace. New colors, new scents and greater longevity
of flowers make Hawaii's growers a player in that marketplace. Agriculture biotechnology will
help us get there faster than conventional breeding practices.
I believe that HB 1226hd 1 respects the rights of all farmers to select organic, conventional or
biotechnology growing practices, and ensures academic freedom of researchers to solve some of
the world's most pressing food security challenges.
It acknowledges that regulatory oversight of agriculture biotechnology remains with the
appropriate governing entity, the FDA, USDA, EPA and State Department of Agriculture rather
than at the county level where the expertise and resources are not available.
Please do not pass this resolution.
Thank you for the opportunity to present testimony. If you have any questions please feel free to
contact me at 808-959-3535 (phone), 808-960-1433 (cell) and email at
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Suppo mi-Ha :i Agriculture
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Eric S. Tanouye, Presi t
Hawaii Florists nd Shippers6SsPHeiN 7„Z,;
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