Grocery Group Could Face Fine Over 2013 Election, GMO Foods

In 2013 you may recall Initiative 522 was defeated with 51% of the vote. It was the controversial measure that would have required food labeling to include if it was a genetically modified product, or GMO. Among those who opposed it are current U.S. Representative Dan Newhouse, who also was a former State Secretary of Agriculture. Supporters said it was a necessary health lifestyle move. Opponents cited the costly labeling changes, and said most of the foods we've been eating for decades are genetically modified, especially those sold in grocery stores.

Now Washington State Attorney General Bob Ferguson wants a Thurston County Superior court to fine the Grocery Manufacturers Association (GMA) for what he says are violations of campaign finance laws. Most grocery stores you shop at are GMA members.

In October 2013, Ferguson sued the GMA, claiming they collected nearly $11 million dollars from it's members, and placed the money in an account called the "Defense of Brands" fund. However, he says the money was actually used to fight I-522, but the GMA didn't disclose that publicly or to it's members.

The GMA filed last week to have the suit dismissed, Ferguson is asking for a summary judgement. A summary judgement argues that because the facts of the case are so 'one-sided' (usually in favor of the party making the request) that they want the judge to immediately rule in their favor.