31.12.69

So far, opponents of the measure have raised about $25 million. Supporters have collected about $3 million.

“For thousands of years we’ve been breeding plants to modify the genes in them so that we can have fruits and vegetables that are safe and healthy,” said Dr. Ronald Kleinman in a video on the No on Prop. 37 coalition’s website.

If approved, the measure will add red tape costs for food producers without providing acceptable health or safety benefits, said Kathy Fairbanks, spokesperson for the No on Prop. 37 coalition.

The measure would ban the sale of California grocery products unless they are repackaged, relabeled or made with higher cost ingredients.

“The cost to California families if Prop. 37 should pass will range between $350 and $400 a year,” Fairbanks said.

She said the new law contains many irrational exemptions. For example, soy milk would require a label, but cow’s milk, eggs, meat and poultry would be exempt even though most animals in the U.S. are fed on genetically modified grain. Fruit juice would also need a label, but alcohol made with some of the same ingredients would not.

Source: Agoura Hills Acorn