Proponents of a referendum in Colorado requiring the labeling of foods made with genetically modified organism (GM) have publicly stated that they will have enough signatures to put the question on the state’s November election ballot. The “Right to Know” initiative must submit 86,105 valid signatures by August 4, and proponents say they already have 90,000 signatures. If successful, Colorado would join Oregon this year in holding a GMO labeling vote. Those supporting GMO labeling in Oregon have raised $1.3 million this year so far, making it possibly one of the most expensive ballot fights in Oregon history, according to the Portland Oregonian.
If Colorado voters approve the ballot measure, then beginning in July 2016, food in Colorado would be deemed misbranded unless the words “produced with genetic engineering” appears on its label. The measure would affect both packaged and raw foods such as produce.