HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-02-05 Letter to Richard Creagan and Lynn DeCoite HB 2197 Relating to Agriculture. Mtv.os N•, Roy Takemoto
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Harry Kim ; .ti`:.'�;'�'�;*;
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County of Hawai`i
Office of the Mayor
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February 5, 2020
Representative Richard P. Creagan, Chair
Representative Lynn DeCoite, Vice Chair
Committee on Agriculture
Hawaii State Legislature
Dear Chair Creagan, Vice-Chair DeCoite, and Committee members:
RE: HB 2197 Relating to Agriculture
HB 1665, previously heard in this Committee, would outlaw glyphosate in the State of
Hawaii. While I realize that perhaps I am being politically incorrect, it seems to me that such a
decision should be based on solid science, and I think it is premature to pass an outright ban
based on the science which is presently available.
I want to thank the Chair of this Committee for introducing HB 2197. HB 2197 does an
excellent job of describing the mixed scientific evidence that is on the table with respect to
glyphosate, and would establish a Task Force to evaluate the situation and report back with
findings and recommendations.
Admittedly, there is a lot of momentum for immediate action. The health of our people is
number one. The fact that there have been large jury awards on the mainland is another
concern, and our future use of glyphosate needs to take into account all the risks and rewards
that we are aware of. But I cannot agree that the product should be outlawed based on the
evidence available to us at the present time.
Thank you for your consideration. I hope you will support HB 2197
Res ectfully Submitted,
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Har K'
ry
MAYOR
County of Hawai'i is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer.