(Updated 5/21 10:08 am) Medford, Ore. — A packed federal courtroom in Medford Wednesday, May 20th, as defenders of a Jackson County GMO-ban gathered to hear a judge’s decision on a lawsuit filed against the county.
The federal judge heard arguments from the county in support of the ban and from attorneys representing two alfalfa farmers who say the ban violates the Oregon right to farm act.
The ban was passed in May of 2014 with a 66% majority.
Supporters of the ban hopes the judge’s decision defends the law.
They’re people who care about local agriculture who care about farmers.
The judge has not made a decision, instead, the ruling is under advisement, meaning a decision should come later this week.
Medford, Ore. — A federal judge will hear arguments tomorrow, May 20th, on Jackson Countys ban on genetically modified crops.
Two family farms that grow alfalfa have filed lawsuits sued Jackson County.
They say the county’s ban on GMO crops will mean they will have to shut down and tear up their operations by June. Shulz Family Farms is seeking $2,000,000 in potential damages, so are James and Marilyn Frink.
Theyre also suing the county to overturn the law, which they say conflicts with state law.
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