Maui voters to decide whether to adopt a moratorium on genetically engineered crops

Groups are campaigning in Maui County over a Nov. 4 ballot measure that would prohibit the growing of genetically modified organisms until studies show they're safe.

Their dueling efforts show it isn't just a local issue in a county of only 160,000 residents in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

Experts say the ban's effects could ripple across the nation because some of the world's largest corn-seed producers research and develop new varieties of genetically engineered seeds at their farms in the county.

Dozens of Maui mothers are going door-to-door to urge voters to back a ban on the cultivation of genetically engineered crops because they think they are unsafe.

A group backed by companies growing the crops counters with ads urging rejection of what they call a "farming ban."