Supporters and opponents of GMO labeling laws prepare to campaign in Washington

(http://www.capitalpress.com/content/SB-I-522-money-080213) Supporters and opponents of Initiative 522, which will be voted on in three months, are in the process of raising campaign money. Supporters have raised $2.3 million so far while opponents have raised almost $1 million to fight it. If passed, this law would force companies to label genetically modified products for retail sale in Washington.

In California, where a similar law, Propisition 37, was rejected in 2012, opponents were able to raise about $44 million. By comparison, proponents of Propisition 37 only riased $7.3 million.

"I know that ultimately we will be outspent," Elizabeth Larter, communications director of Yes on 522, said. "In California, money on the 'no' side came in later."

The biggest contribution so far to Washington's Yes on 522 came from Dr. Bronner's Magic Soaps, a Californian organic soap and personal care product manufacturer who donated $700,000.

Washington-based organizations like the Organic Consumer Fund, Nature's Path Foods and PCC Natural Markets are also contributors to the Yes on 522 campaign.

"As of the end of July, 80 percent of our donors are from Washington state," Larter said. "There are lots of $5, $10 and $20 donations. It shows that Washingtonians really care about this issue. They're really embracing the message of more transparency."

Most of the contributions for the No on 522 campaign have come from five out-of-state companies: the Grocery Manufacturers Association, Monsanto, Dupont Pioneer, Bayer Cropscience and Dow Agroscience.

"We're just ramping up, in the growing stages of the campaign," said Brad Harwood, the media coordinator for No on 522. "People are on vacation right now and not paying much attention to it. Once voters have the opportunity to see how it will hurt farmers and raise food prices, we're confident they'll join us. The more they learn, the less they like it."

The official ballot text reads:

Initiative Measure No. 522 concerns labeling of genetically-engineered foods. This measure would require most raw agricultural commodities, processed foods, and seeds and seed stocks, if produced using genetic engineering as defined, to be labeled as genetically engineered when offered for retail sale.

Should this measure be enacted into law? Yes [ ] No [ ]

If voters approve the initiative, the law will go into effect July 1, 2015.