Local reps discuss railway, GMOs

MOSES LAKE - Reps. Judy Warnick and Matt Manweller weren't expecting a full house for their public meeting Tuesday in Moses Lake, but appeared happy to answer an array of questions from the nearly 24 people in attendance.

Jerome Brotherton, from Brotherton Seed in Moses Lake, was concerned about possible future plans to move the spur railway away from downtown.

Both representatives serve on the House Rail Caucus, focused on the rail needs across the state. They said there are long-term plans that include a project in Moses Lake, but there are no funds available at this time.

The current rail line only serves two customers currently. Shutting that down to build a new line would severely affect business for those two.

Manweller did add there could be the possibility of compensation for the loss to the businesses if a project is approved in the future.

Another issue that could have major implications for the state's agriculture is Initiative 522, which, if approved, would call for genetically modified food sold at retail stores to be labeled beginning in 2015.

Warnick, R-Moses Lake, said although there are rumors genetically engineered food can cause health problems, she and other lawmakers in the state have yet to find a study that proves it.

Manweller, R-Ellensburg, said he would not support the initiative.

"It's not fair to say only Washington seed growers and farmers is this applicable to, but nobody else in the other 49 states have to do it," he said. "It would essentially destroy Washington agriculture because we would be the only one with these signs."