Learn the facts on I-522 before you vote

Soon we will be heading to the polls to vote on several important issues. I want to address Initiative 522, the labeling requirements for genetically engineered foods.

According to the American Association of Advanced Science, Genetically Modified (GM) foods have been tested extensively and there has been no proof of these products being any more dangerous for human consumption than non-GM foods. In fact, GM has allowed farmers to use less dangerous sprays and pesticides over the past 20 years and to produce larger crops for local, national and world consumption.

As a fifth generation farm family in the Ritzville area, this initiative hits close to home, not just as farmers, but as someone who shops at the grocery store for my family. I’m sure you’ve seen all the commercials, but here is the truth about I-522.

1. Because of the additional cost of labeling, packaging and recordkeeping, the Washington Research Council says that the average family of four will pay an additional $450 per year for food at the store. In addition, the measure does not provide funding for the more than $22.5 million per year to monitor and regulate the products. That would be the responsibility of Washington taxpayers.

2. Seventy percent (70%) of food and beverages would be exempt from this labeling. For example, your dog’s food will be labeled, but the meat, milk and eggs you serve your family won’t.

3. The biggest concern for our state would be the predatory shakedown lawsuits. These “bounty hunter lawyers” can and will find ways to sue farmers, producers and grocery store owners over the wording on food labels.

4. No other state in our nation has this regulation, in fact California voted down this same Initiative just last year. There are other regulations already in place to protect and inform the consumer.

Don’t take my word for it. Do the research yourself. Visit http://www.FactsAbout522.com and be informed. As for me and my family, we encourage you to vote NO on I-522.

Michele Kiesz, Ritzville