15-119 Ordinance to Ban Growing of Some “Genetically-Engineered” (defined) Plants (by initiative petition)
Question: Should Ordinance Ban Growing of “Genetically-Engineered” Plants (defined) in Jackson County and Allow County/Private Persons to Compel Enforcement?
Summary: This ordinance would ban any person from propagating, cultivating, raising or growing “genetically-engineered” (defined) plants in Jackson County.
The Ordinance also:
- Requires affected persons to harvest, destroy or remove all genetically engineered plants within 12 months of the enactment of the ordinance;
- Provides exemptions for certain health, educational, scientific and medical research institutions if activities are conducted under secure, indoor laboratory conditions;
- Allows for inspections of private property by County code enforcement officers after obtaining a search warrant;
- Allows for enforcement of the ordinance by the County and by private persons or groups through the State court system;
- Provides for contested hearings and appeals for alleged violations;
- Allows the County to recover the cost of abatement from the property owner or the person causing the violation;
- Defines the terms “genetically engineered,” “organic agriculture,” and “organic;”
