Yesterday was a huge day for the campaign with the decision of the Citizen Initiative Review. The 20-member review acted as a microcosm of the larger GMO labeling effort with examining how we communicate our message, dealing with distractions from a well-funded opponent, and resonating concerns with citizens about regaining our right to know what is in our food.

See our press release on the 11-9 finding of the panel.

For Immediate Release

Contact:

Mara Sheldon, tel 720.840.1638, mara@r2kcolorado.org, www.righttoknowcolorado.org

Right to Know Colorado Wins GMO Labeling Debate
at Citizens Initiative Review

WHEAT RIDGE, Colorado (Sept. 11, 2014) – Right to Know Colorado, the campaign supporting GMO labeling’s Proposition 105 on Colorado’s November ballot, is celebrating a victory today winning an 11-9 vote at the Citizen Initiative Review (CIR)’s panel of pro- and anti-GMO labeling presentations.

“Coloradans have the right to know what is in the food they buy and consume," said Tammi DeVille Merrell, Campaign Manager of Right to Know Colorado. "Sixty-four countries around the world require GMO labeling, and 16 of the top 25 countries that import Colorado food products also require GMO labeling, it is just commonsense our state should too. Today is a great win for our campaign."

The CIR works like a jury process. CIR mailed letters and applications to 5,000 voters around the state, looking for participants. A select group of 20 citizens were picked to participate that reflected the voter composition of the state, in terms of location, education, and other factors.

On Monday, those 20 citizens convened in Denver for three days of intensive study on the measure. They researched the initiative and viewed presentations from those in favor and against. They also heard from neutral sources, who were also agreed upon by both sides. The event was open to the public.

"When voters hear information transparently from both sides, they choose to be more informed," said DeVille Merrell. "Right to Know Colorado was glad to participate in this democratic process and looks forward to another victory for Coloradans this November."

The Colorado CIR will produce a voter guide on Proposition 105. The review is a pilot program aimed to help voters understand complicated ballot measures better.

The review is available at http://healthydemocracy.org/colorado-citizens-initiative-review/proposition-105-final/.

About Right to Know Colorado

Right to Know Colorado is a grassroots campaign supporting Proposition 105, which calls for the labeling of genetically modified foods (GMOs). This November, Coloradans will have the opportunity to vote on labeling that provides consumers with the opportunity to make an informed choice of the food products they consume. For more information or to donate to Right to Know Colorado, visit: www.righttoknowcolorado.org. Join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RighttoKnowColorado.

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