The North Carolina Farm Bill would respond to the federal government's requirement for a plan to monitor and regulate hemp production in the state. Here are some things to know about the issue.
The Farm Bill of 2019 would establish a state plan for the regulation, cultivation, and handling of hemp products. One of the steps necessary to do that requires exempting people from having to pay the Unauthorized Substances Tax. The what tax? Exactly.
Cross-subsidization, unfair competition, and taxpayers being on the hook for service costs were particularly bad problems leading to the Level Playing Field Law in 2011. But look what HB 431 would do.
Being able to petition the board “at any time” is a particularly strong reform. For people whose conviction record would disqualify them from the license no matter what, being able to find out beforehand would save them a great deal of time and money, let alone heartbreak.
Could Orange County do anything to influence the world's climate, with or without resorting to higher taxes? Do the math; the answer is a clear no. But they can make things more expensive for residents.
Since the end of Prohibition, NC distilleries have faced a very restrictive regulatory environment, even more so than wineries and breweries. The good news is that relaxing these restrictions can bring about catch-up growth in the distillery industry here.
