Bill > S639

This bill encompasses a wide range of agricultural and environmental provisions for North Carolina, addressing several key areas. The bill establishes a Feral Swine Working Group within the Wildlife Resources Commission, consisting of 10 members from various agricultural and government organizations, to develop a statewide plan for controlling feral swine damage on public and private lands, with an annual reporting requirement. It directs the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to update the Strategic Plan for Protecting Agricultural Water Resources, focusing on water infrastructure, conservation practices, and flood mitigation strategies. The bill also modifies several existing laws, including allowing school principals to excuse students for up to two days annually for equestrian and agricultural events, increasing penalties for second-time offenses related to crop larceny and aquaculture operations, and providing liability protections for pesticide manufacturers following EPA-approved labeling. Additional provisions include expanding the definition of agriculture to include certain composting facilities, adjusting propane industry assessment rules, authorizing the use of subsurface wastewater dispersal products in traffic-rated areas, and granting expanded jurisdiction to Department of Agriculture law enforcement officers. The bill aims to support agricultural industries, enhance public safety, and provide technical corrections to existing agricultural regulations.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/S639