Sen. Everitt files bill in North Carolina Senate to support small farmers

A new bill filed by State Sen. Terence Everitt in the North Carolina Senate seeks to enhance the sustainability of small farmers through financial support and program management by the agriculture department, according to the North Carolina State Senate.

The bill, filed as SB 313 on March 17 during the 2025 regular session, was formally listed with the short title: ‘Supporting Small Farmers for NC’s Future Act.’

The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.

In essence, this bill establishes the Small Farmers Support Grant Program within the North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. It aims to enhance the sustainability of small farmers by providing financial assistance through grants for essential inputs, equipment, and operational improvements, addressing issues such as rising land prices and economic consolidation. A Small Farmer Grant Fund will be created, comprising non-state donations and $15 million in state appropriations. Eligible farmers, defined as state residents with a gross cash farm income of $1 million or less, may apply for these grants. The Commissioner of Agriculture will manage the program, prioritizing applicants based on farm size, income levels, and economic hardship. Up to 1% of appropriated funds may be used for administrative costs. The Department will also form an advisory committee to evaluate the program’s effectiveness. This act is effective July 1, 2025.

Of the two sponsors of this bill, Kandie D. Smith proposed the most bills (23) during the 2025 regular session.

Bills in North Carolina follow a multi-step process before becoming law. A lawmaker starts by filing a bill, which is assigned to a committee for review. The bill must be read three times in each chamber. If one chamber changes the bill after the other passes it, both must agree on the final version. Once both chambers approve the same bill, it goes to the governor, who has 10 days (or 30 if the legislature is not in session) to sign, veto, or let it become law without a signature.

You can read more about the bills and other measures here.

Everitt graduated from Rutgers University in 1997 with a BA and again in 2001 from Columbus School of Law with a JD.

Everitt, a Democrat, was elected to the North Carolina State Senate in 2025 to represent the state’s 18th Senate district, replacing previous state senator Mary Wills Bode.