The General Assembly voted Thursday evening to pass Senate Bill 711 – known as the N.C. Farm Act of 2018 – and the bill is on its way to Governor Cooper’s desk.
The bill is the 6th annual Farm Act, which has provided much-needed relief to farmers and rural communities over the years. This year’s Farm Act contains a provision to help protect farmers from predatory lawsuits which have become popular among trial lawyers looking for a quick payday, even drawing lawyers from across the country as they try to pit neighbor against neighbor in an effort to line their own pockets.
“I want to thank co-sponsors Senators Cook and Sanderson, and everyone who has helped move this important piece of legislation forward as we guarantee a fair playing field for our family farmers and stop the malicious onslaught of unfounded lawsuits which threaten to put hundreds of farms out of business,”said primary bill sponsor Sen. Brent Jackson (R-Sampson) whose district also includes a portion of Johnston County. “It is my hope that Governor Cooper will take swift action to stand up for our farmers by signing this bill into law.”
Governor Cooper will have 10 days to act on the bill once received.
