WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 617

Supporting Small Farmers for NC's Future Act.

2025-2026 Session Introduced by Eric Ager and 26 co-sponsors

North Carolina bill establishing support mechanisms for small farms, currently in committee review with fiscal implications under consideration.

Passed 1st Reading
#agriculture;commerce;corporations #for-profit;disasters&emergencies;economicdevelopment;funding;grants;public;retailing;ruraldevelopment;smallbusiness;taxexemptions;taxation;taxes #sales&use
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 617

Legislative bill overview

HB 617, the Supporting Small Farmers for NC's Future Act, is a newly filed bill in North Carolina that aims to provide support mechanisms for small-scale agricultural operations. The bill has passed its first reading and been referred to the Agriculture and Environment Committee, with potential subsequent review by Appropriations, Finance, and Rules committees. The specific provisions are not yet publicly detailed in the filing information available.

Why is this important

Small farms represent a significant portion of North Carolina's agricultural landscape and rural economy, so legislation targeting their sustainability directly affects farm viability, rural community health, and food system resilience. The bill's progression through multiple committees—particularly Appropriations and Finance—suggests it likely involves fiscal allocation, indicating potential budget implications for state resources dedicated to agricultural support.

Potential points of contention

  • Definition and eligibility: Disagreement may arise over how "small farmer" is defined (acreage, revenue, production type) and which operations qualify for benefits
  • Funding mechanism: Questions about whether new appropriations are needed versus reallocation of existing agricultural funding, and whether resources could be better directed elsewhere
  • Specificity of support: Unclear whether the bill provides direct subsidies, technical assistance, market access programs, or loan guarantees—each with different stakeholder impacts and effectiveness measures

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.