HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0385.070 2012-2014 Murashige, Laura
From: Alan Takemoto [alan.takemoto @gmail.com]
Sent: Monday, September 02, 2013 10:31 PM
To: counciltestimony @co.hawaii.hi.us
Subject: Bill 109 - Opposing Testimony
Attachments: Bill 109.Testimony GMO.docx
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Bill 109.Testimony
GMO.docx(1...
To Whom It May Concern:
I am submitting testimony in opposition to Bill 109.
Bill 109 will be heard on September 4, 2013. Please distribute to Council members.
If any questions, please call me at 808-292-3205.
Alan Takemoto
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Comm. No. 31:?541 70
Ref. To: P P°sMTG
Ref. Date SEP Q 4 2013
1
September 4, 2013
COUNTY OF HAWAII
COUNTY COUNCIL
COMMITTEE ON PUBLIC SAFETY AND MASS TRANSIT
TESTIMONY IN OPPOSITION TO
BILL 109
Dear Chairwoman Wille and committee members:
My name is Alan Takemoto. I am writing in opposition to Bill 109 which will ban the growing of
genetically engineered products on the Big Island.
I am opposed to Bill 109 for the following reasons:
• Health and Safety—The USDA, FDA, and EPA all regulate agricultural biotechnology.
There is no credible study that has found any environmental, health or safety concerns.
• Economy - Bill 109 will negatively hurt the future of Big Island farmers and ranchers as
they rely on science and technology to improve and protect their crops. Financial and
research institutions will hesitate to commit to any investment in agriculture. Farming is
already a risky and challenging business.
• Science and Technology— Bill 109 makes false and inaccurate assumptions that have no
scientific data or facts. We encourage our youth to study Science, Technology, Math
and Engineering (STEM), but where are the jobs. Our youth will continue to move out of
Hawaii for decent paying careers.
Give farmers a choice and the necessary tools and options to farm. Sustainability doesn't
happen by itself. We need farmers to farm.
Vote NO on Bill 109.
Sincerely,
Alan Takemoto
808-292-3205