Dennis Tuuri

Full PEAPAC Analysis

PEAPAC Explanation: Measure 92 Requires Labeling of Some Genetically Engineered Foods

The representative system of government in our country and state finds its origins in the Bible. Even the “bi-cameral” legislative system (Senators and House members) can be found in the Hebrew republic of the Bible. In this system, laws are primarily the responsibility of elected officials who have the time, resources and access to skilled experts to make informed decisions as they frame laws that comport with God’s Word.

In Psalm 131, we read that the author does not “involve myself in great matters or things too difficult for me.” While it takes humility to admit it, there are many matters in life that are beyond our understanding, given the limitations of our time and callings. Some of these end up on the ballot.

Measure 92 concerns highly technical scientific processes that have only been used in the food industry for about 30 years, and that keep changing. It has what appears to be some significant weaknesses. For instance, it only applies to about one-third of all foods. For example, it wouldn’t apply to beef, dairy or milk. But cows and chickens are regularly fed genetically engineered feed.

We are sympathetic to the concerns that prompt this Measure, even though negative effects of GE (genetic engineered) food or GMO (genetically manipulated organisms) has yet to be proven. While these understandable concerns are being further investigated, those with these concerns have the option of eating only foods labeled as organic or non-GMO. This seems sufficient to us. But we recommend a No vote not because we have all the answers, but because we don’t. When complex issues like food distribution systems and genetic engineering of food stuffs are being addressed, we think our elected representatives with all their resources are in a better place to write appropriate legislation