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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate2026-05-18

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language 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.