The U.S. Court of Appeals has ruled the Hawaii County’s partial ban on genetically modified crops is pre-empted by federal law. ADVERTISING The U.S. Court of Appeals has ruled the Hawaii County’s partial ban on genetically modified crops is pre-empted
The U.S. Court of Appeals has ruled the Hawaii County’s partial ban on genetically modified crops is pre-empted by federal law.
The decision filed Friday affirms the U.S. District Court’s ruling that invalidated the controversial measure.
The ordinance banned open air testing and cultivation of genetically modified plants and crops with exemptions for those already being grown.
On Hawaii Island, farmers grow genetically modified papaya, which is resistant to the ringspot virus, and corn for cattle feed. The law would have required them to register with the county.
The lawsuit was filed by local farmers and farming organizations.
Anti-GMO groups joined the county in defending the law and appealing the earlier decision.
