Press Release
We've just received word that the Maine bill on genetic cross-
contamination proposed by the Maine Organic Farmers and
Gardeners Association and introduced by Representative Linda
Rogers McKee (D-Wayne) has been signed into law. L.D. 1266
requires manufacturers or seed dealers of genetically engineered
plants, plant parts or seeds to provide written instructions to all
growers on how to plant, grow, and harvest the crops to minimize
potential cross-contamination of non-genetically engineered crops
or wild plant populations. Copies of the instructions must be filed
with the Maine Commissioner of Agriculture at least 20 days in
advance of any sale of the GE plants in Maine. The bill also
requires the manufacturer or the seed dealer to identify and
maintain a list of the names and addresses of all Maine growers of
its GE plants (except for seeds sold at retail level in packets
weighing less than one pound), and to permit the Commissioner of
Agriculture to inspect the list when requested to facilitate an
investigation into a claim of cross-contamination.
Failture to comply with the requirements of the Act may result
in a civil fine of up to $1,500, or loss or suspension of the violator's
license to do business in Maine.
The text available on the Maine Legislature's website is the
original MOFGA proposal, not the final amended version.
Requests for the final text may be directed to Sharon Tisher,
sharon_tisher@umenfa.maine.edu, (207)581-3158.
MOFGA's original proposal would have made manufacturers
strictly liable for any damages due to cross-contamination. That
provision dropped out of the amended version after extensive
negotiation in order to secure a unanimous "Ought to Pass" vote
from the Joint Standing Committee on Agriculture, Conservation
and Forestry.
Sharon Tisher, chair of MOFGA's Public Policy Committee,
observed that, "We are delighted that this legislation passed. It's
not all that we asked for, but it takes an important and necessary
first step toward ensuring that manufacturers address the problem
of cross contamination, and that growers are aware of the problem
and are instructed in how to prevent it."
** NOTICE: In accordance with Title 17 U.S.C. Section 107, this material is distributed for research and educational purposes only. ** |
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Last Updated on 3/31/01 Email: information@biotech-info.net |
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