HI HB97

Require the Department of Agriculture to issue permits before any person can import, introduce, or develop new species of genetically modified organisms in Hawaii

Grant the Department of Agriculture authority to determine whether to approve permit applications for genetically modified organisms and establish conditions for approval after holding a public hearing

Effective date set to July 1, 2050, as amended by the Committee on Agriculture

Received support from Hawaii Organic Farming Association, Sierra Club Hawaii Chapter, and anti-GMO advocacy groups; opposition from agricultural and horticultural industry groups including Monsanto Hawaii and Hawaii Cattlemen's Council

Committee recommends passage and referral to the Committee on Energy & Environmental Protection