With Kauai's law meant to restrict the use of GMO seeds and pesticides ruled invalid, many are wondering how that will impact similar efforts on neighbouring islands.
An ordinance meant to regulate the use of pesticides and genetically modified organisms in Kauai has been struck down.
A federal judge has ruled that a Kauai County law requiring companies to disclose their use of pesticides and genetically modified crops is invalid.
On Maui, a voter initiative set to appear on the Nov. 4 ballot is now in question.
The proposed measure would put a moratorium on cultivating, growing or testing genetically modified crops until agriculture companies complete environmental and health studies. Those studies must prove the companies' standards and practices are safe.
Maui Mayor Alan Arakawa believes the Kauai ruling will provide helpful guidance.
"The court ruling, we'll be able to look at it and essentially this will be another piece of information that we can deliver to our public that we can say, 'This is what I allowed under state law. This is what is not allowable under state,'" said Arakawa.
Agribusiness interests believe that measures restricting the use and testing of GMOs will cost Maui hundreds of jobs.
Supporters of the initiative dispute the job claims.
