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Dispatches from public radio's correspondent at the Oregon Legislature. This is a venue for political and policy coverage of the state government in Salem and its impact on the people of Oregon.

Oregon's Food Labeling Measure Appears Headed For Recount

Lindsay Eyink
A ballot measure in Oregon that would require labels on genetically engineered foods could be heading for a recount.

It appears Oregon is headed for its first statewide ballot measure recount in more than six years.

The gap between the "no" votes and "yes" votes on Measure 92 shrank Thursday afternoon to about 1,500 votes out of more than 1.5 million cast.

Measure 92 would require food manufacturers and retailers to label genetically engineered foods. The difference between the two sides now falls well within the threshold for an automatic statewide recount.

That threshold is two-tenths of one percent, which gives you an idea of how close this is.

Measure 92 was the most expensive initiative campaign in state history. Several news organizations declared it defeated soon after Election Day, but the gap narrowed as county elections offices tallied up remaining ballots.

Counties have until Monday to submit final numbers to the state, so a recount isn't official just yet.