One of the largest areas of biotechnology use is pharmacology, health and well-being. Did anyone think about the damage that will be done to our new Pharmaceutical Collage at University of Hilo? I must admit I didn’t until I read a Professors comments.
Bill 113 is a “Fear and Mistrust” Bill Fear of Farming and Fear of science, in reality it lacks a sound understanding of either science or farming. When you fear something you do not outlaw it, you investigate it and find answers Bill 113 is the equivalent of giving someone who hides in the Closet afraid of the boogeyman the ability to remain hidden and not face reality.
This bill 113 Banning GMOs will harm the Big Island’s chances to be competitive to attract or retain high quality scientists in the most directly applied science fields that assist in human health and well-being.
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The lack of scientific understanding and professed mistrust of the scientific process which underpins Bill 113 will weigh heavily on the decisions for Pharmacy and Genetics researchers to decide to work at UH Pharmacy school, and will affect competitive recruitment of agriculture extension researchers and professors at all levels in the UH system on Big Island.
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Anti-scientific legislation created by a poor understanding of scientific principles and practices erodes public confidence in scientific inquiry and critical thinking. This undermines the education system in our local communities which are already behind in science, technology, and math education.
The University of Hawaii system is an amazing top rated school that is affordable; if we harm their ability to recruit top quality facility we will hinder our future in yet another unintended consequence.
Hawaii Farmers & Ranchers United 