Why I Voted Yes on I-522

I voted "Yes" on Washington's Initiative I-522.

A few months ago, I wrote about GMOs (genetically modified organisms) in our food and the efforts in Washington state to require food labeling through Initiative 522. While I had hoped to share more information on the topic, this blog has been on back burner for the past few months. However, I haven't forgotten about this important issue and I wanted to share with you why I voted to approve I-522.

Henry thinks the Voters Guide makes a good coloring book.

It really comes down to one simple fact: I want to know what's in the food that my family eats. Even if I end up buying foods with GMOs, I should be able to make that choice for myself and my family.

GMOs should not be allowed to hide in our food. If GMOs are great advancements in agriculture and technology, then food producers and manufacturers should not be scared to come out in the open. Secrecy only creates fear and I don't want to be afraid of the food I eat.

The big corporations that are funding the No campaign have tried to say this law is unnecessary, too complicated or has too many exemptions. In reality, the new regulations will simplify things for consumers, giving us a new tool to make grocery-buying decisions with a little more peace of mind.

Even Henry's great-grandma thinks we should have the right to know what's in our food.

My ballot is in the mail, but we won't know the election results until late Tuesday night or Wednesday morning. If you are a registered voter in Washington state, I hope you'll join me in helping to pass this landmark initiative by sending in your ballot before Tuesday's election deadline.

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