HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0271.742 2012-2014 J Yoshimoto
From: Joanne Lichty <jsimalic @gmail.com>
Sent: Tuesday, July 02, 2013 10:26 AM
To: jyoshimoto @co.hawaii.hi.us
Subject: Bill 79
Dear Mr. Yoshimoto
As one of your constituents, I am writing to ask you to vote against Bill 79. Although I agree with some of
its intent, I believe the ramifications of its passing have not been thoroughly studied and may cause problems
for agriculture on this island and for our community at large in the future. Below are some of the specific
objections I have to the "anti-GMO" Bill 79.
Section 14—Prohibitions is too broad as written. Transgenic modification can also be done within species, to
speed up what could be done with traditional breeding methods. Potatoes and strawberries have been
improved by taking genes from potatoes and putting them into potato plants or from strawberries into
strawberries, to improve disease resistance. No new genes are being introduced that would not occur under
traditional breeding. Would this type of plant also be banned?
Section 14- Exemptions (e) would prevent new livestock producers from utilizing GMO feed. If we are to
become a self-sustaining food secure community, we need to encourage and enable more producers of livestock
and ensuing products such as eggs, dairy products and meats. I don't believe there are any commercial poultry,
egg or pork producers left on this island.
Section 14—Enforcement and Penalties does not set up rules and regulations of the Department responsible for
regulation. How will violation be proven? Where is funding for personnel trained to do investigations coming
from?
I think this is a very emotional issue and should not be rushed. This bill should not be passed as
written. Thank you for your consideration.
Sincerely, C)
Ca5 CD C,
Joanne Lichty r—
<—4
25 Leimamo Street N
T1 CD
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Comm. Va. al l' 42°
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