Plain English Summary
This bill proposes a constitutional amendment that would add a new section to the North Carolina Constitution explicitly protecting the right of people to engage in farming and forestry activities, including crop cultivation, livestock raising, dairy and apiary production, and timber harvesting. The amendment would be subject to voter approval in the November 2026 general election.
Arguments in Favor
Supporters argue this amendment protects North Carolina's agricultural heritage and farming traditions by giving constitutional-level protection to farming and forestry rights. They contend it safeguards farmers and forestry operators from potential future regulations or restrictions that could limit their ability to operate their businesses and maintain rural livelihoods.
Arguments Against
Opponents express concern that the amendment could limit the state's ability to regulate agricultural and forestry practices in the public interest, such as environmental protections, water quality standards, or animal welfare regulations. They argue the phrase 'subject only to laws enacted by the General Assembly' may create legal ambiguity about which regulations are permissible and could lead to costly court battles over the amendment's interpretation.
AI-generated analysis based on bill text. Always verify with official sources at ncleg.gov. This is not legal or political advice.
Sponsors
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 4
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 11
Primary Sponsor
Senator · District 9
Cosponsors (25)
Senator · District 31
Senator · District 46
Senator · District 35
Senator · District 1
Senator · District 29
Senator · District 33
Senator · District 3
Senator · District 45
Senator · District 25
Senator · District 21
Senator · District 7
Senator · District 34
Senator · District 37
Senator · District 2
Senator · District 12
Senator · District 48
Senator · District 8
Senator · District 10
Senator · District 50
Senator · District 43
Senator · District 36
Senator · District 44
Senator · District 24
Senator · District 26
Senator · District 30