GMO OPPOSITION GROWING IN NH

GMO OPPOSITION GROWING IN NH
New Hampshire Citizens Support Labeling Law for Genetically Modified Foods 

New Hampshire – New Hampshire residents are joining together in support of HB660, the proposed NH law that would require the labeling of GMOs (genetically modified organisms). New Hampshire citizens believe that they deserve the Right to Know what they are eating and what they are feeding their children. This is a basic right that people in 64 other countries including all of Europe, Japan, China, Brazil, Peru and New Zealand already enjoy, but is a right that has been denied to Americans for the past 20 years. Canada is the only other developed country to not have a GMO labeling law, although they, too, are proposing such legislation.

A grassroots organization has recently sprung up, calling itself “NH Right To Know GMOs.” This is a group of mothers and fathers, grandmothers and grandfathers, activists and farmers, store clerks, health care providers, educators, politicians and retirees. This is not a political issue; supporters come from across the political spectrum. Although they come from different backgrounds, labeling supporters share a common belief: the people of NH have the Right to Know what is in our food, and NH needs a GMO labeling bill ... NOW!  

The mission of NH Right to Know GMOs is to inform the public about genetically engineered foods. It advocates for transparency in the food supply and for clear and concise mandatory labeling of foods that have been genetically modified, or produced with genetically modified ingredients.

"NH Right to Know GMOs" is proud to be a member of a "Right to Know GMO, A Coalition of States." Right to Know GMO - A Coalition of States is a grassroots movement dedicated to regaining our basic Right to Know what we're eating and what we are feeding our families. They support state-level GMO food labeling initiatives by providing a venue for collaboration between respective initiatives and the broader national movement.

HB660

NH currently has a proposed law, HB 660, “requiring the labeling of genetically engineered foods.” This bill was introduced by Representative Maureen Mann of Deerfield. Co-sponsors are Representatives Robert Perry, Ian Raymond, Linda Massimilla and Suzanne Smith.

Two other New England states—Connecticut and Maine--have already approved labeling of GMOs for their citizens, although there are certain contingencies that still need to be met before they can be enacted. A similar bill has passed the Vermont House and will reach the Senate in January. NH wants to join them.

About Genetically Modified Organisms
Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) are unnatural plants, animals, bacteria, fungi, yeasts and viruses, created in a laboratory through artificial means. Plant-based GMOs are grown and used as food for both animals and humans. Genes or genetic sequences are transferred and spliced into these organisms using laboratory techniques of biotechnology, called genetic engineering (GE) or transgenics. This experimental technology merges DNA traits and characteristics from different species, genus and kingdoms, creating never before seen combinations of plant, animal, bacteria, fungi, yeasts and viruses which cannot occur in nature through traditional reproduction or crossbreeding, such as pollination. 

A growing body of scientific, medical, and anecdotal evidence connects GMOs with potential health problems, serious environmental damage, and violation of farmers’ and consumers’ rights.  Many developed nations do not consider GMOs to be safe.

For more information about GMOs or for information on what YOU can do to help the passage of HB 660, please visit NH Right To Know GMOs’ website at: http://www.NHRightToKnowGMOs.org/ and "Like" their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/NHRightToKnowGMOs.