At first glance, Constitutional Measure No. 3 sounds good. I’ve listened to the ads supporting it and they are emotionally appealing. Most of us in North Dakota have strong, positive feelings about ranching and farming and we want to do what we can to support them. However, this measure has the potential to create unforeseen and unwanted problems.
One area of concern is the use of chemicals in farming. Most farmers are dependent on them and there is ongoing research to continue their use to improve crop production. However, take the example of Dr. Don Huber, a recently retired professor and researcher from Purdue University. Dr. Huber’s research, which spans over 55 years, has been devoted to looking at how the agricultural system can be managed for more effective crop production, better disease control, improved nutrition, and safety. Dr. Huber is traveling the country educating the public about the extremely serious dangers of genetically modified (GM) crops and glyphosate - the active ingredient in Roundup. It appears to me that Measure No. 3 would prevent our legislature from taking any action against the use of GM crops, the use of glyphosate or other new discoveries, even if there was overwhelming evidence of their dangers.
There needs to be much more education and research done about the possible affects of Measure No. 3 before it is ever placed permanently into the North Dakota Constitution. Please vote “NO.”
Phil Jore, Williston, ND
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