The National Association of Manufacturers is asking the Washington (State) Supreme Court to overturn a multi-million dollar fine against the Grocery Manufacturers Association for alleged campaign finance disclosure violations, saying the penalty violates businesses' right to free speech, the agriculture news site Capital Press reported Wednesday.

GMA was hit with an $18 million fine by a state court in 2016 for failing to disclose donors in the association's campaign against a ballot initiative that would have required labels on foods containing genetically modified ingredients. The fine was reduced to $6 million upon appeal, but the verdict was allowed to stand. GMA has since appealed the decision to the state's highest court.

In an amicus brief filed last week, NAM argued the lower courts failed to consider the internet-based backlash companies receive for taking political positions, Capital Press reported.

"Without anonymity, speakers face boycotts, harassment, and even threats of violence, all for engaging in activity at the heart of the First Amendment's protection," NAM said.

Washington Attorney General Bob Ferguson is seeking to restore the $18 million fine, arguing that GMA intentionally set out to deceive voters and the penalty should reflect that. http://bit.ly/2lqqjnE