If you thought America was a biotech-friendly nation, think again:

Stallman, a rice producer from Texas, said anti-biotech groups – which have failed at furthering their agenda on the national level – are initiating local biotech bans, such as Measure D in Butte County, which is up for a Nov. 2 vote. “Local biotech bans threaten agricultural production one county at a time,” Stallman told attendees at a “No On D” rally. He also called on members of the Butte County Farm Bureau to talk with their friends and neighbors about what biotechnology means on their farms.

“You are activists for agriculture,” Stallman said.

Debunking a misconception about biotechnology, Stallman said many top foreign markets for U.S. ag products have readily embraced biotechnology, including Japan, China, Canada and Mexico.

Is this even an issue that should be subject to local legislation?