Dive Brief:
- A bill seeking further regulation of GMO crops in Oregon died in committee, though it could see a revival in another measure that includes non-GMO crops.
- House Bill 2674 would have left the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) in control of where certain GMO crops could be planted as to stop cross-pollination in its tracks.
- Rep. Brian Clem (D-Salem) said there will be a push to create a way for the ODA to mediate crop disputes, including ones where GMO crops aren't in play. A proposal like this could potentially be up for debate by the House Rules Committee, where bills can survive until a legislative session's close.
Dive Insight:
Oregon has been quite the subject of GMO talk. Perhaps a push toward wider legislation might allow a bill to make some headway.
A biotech group in the state was pleased with the bill's demise, and is in favor of a separate bill.
“Coexistence is not enhanced by directing a state department to tell farmers what they can grow and how they can grow it,” said Scott Dahlman, the policy director of Oregonians for Food and Shelter.
Oregon also saw a recount back in November following a close election on a GMO labeling measure, which ultimately did not pass.