The state government is meddling in local matters again.

This time, it wants seeds.

The Michigan State legislature created Senate Bill 777, which could change who has the final say on what types of seeds can be planted in each county. As worded, the bill would take away local governments' right to decide if and where genetically modified or organic seeds are planted.

Seeds might not seem like a big deal, but it's a big issue that impacts many Michigan farmers.

Produce that is organically certified allows the farmer to charge more. But even if the smallest trace of genetically modified genes are found — from pollen carried by the wind or residue in the soil — the produce can't be considered organic.

Farmers already have a tough time — if weather is bad, their crops are ruined. If the market for their crop is unfavorable, they lose money. People don't get rich from farming.

Why add more grief to an already difficult business by telling famers what kinds of seeds they can plant and where?

And if they are told what to plant and where to go, it is not exactly an easy fix. They can't just strip their crops from one area and completely start over or pick up and leave for another farm 50 miles away.

It's clear that local governments would know more about local farmer's concerns and issues than the state. They will be able to take into account where the farms are located and how many grow either modified or organic seeds.

Local governments could also explore other preventative measures that might settle the situation in their own counties without mandating what type of seed is permitted.

Out of all the things the state needs to handle, seeds shouldn't be one of them.