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ASSOCIATED PRESS
A sign from an environmental group pushing a bill proposing mandatory labeling of genetically modified food sat during a hearing in Honolulu on Monday.
Local advocates of all-natural food scored a partial victory when the House Committee on Agriculture passed a measure to require labeling on genetically modified food.
The committee approved the bill today but amended it so it only applies to produce imported from outside Hawaii.
Numerous proponents of the bill testified before the House committee this week.
They say they deserve to know whether the food they are buying has been genetically modified.
Several opponents of the bill said they are worried about how the measure could affect local farmers.
They also argue that requiring labels would increase food costs.
House agriculture committee Chairwoman Jessica Wooley says because the bill only affects produce brought in from outside Hawaii, it benefits local farms and won’t cause food prices to rise.
