The US District Court ruled that Maui County's ordinance banning genetically engineered activities and GMOs is preempted by federal and state law and exceeds the County's authority. Mark Sheehan of the SHAKA Movement plans to appeal the decision, arguing that the County and state have a responsibility to protect public health and the environment. However, Maui County has decided not to defend the ordinance and is taking no position in the case, despite previously promising to carry out the will of voters who approved the GMO moratorium.