In a significant move, the North Carolina Senate Judiciary Committee decided against prohibiting the sale of raw milk, following an intense debate involving approximately 100 activists. Senator Brent Jackson presented Senate Bill 639, also known as the North Carolina Farm Act of 2025, which initially aimed to repeal laws allowing unpasteurized milk distribution for personal use. However, amendments introduced on Tuesday instead proposed legalizing the sale and distribution of raw milk under specific conditions, such as herd share agreements. Proponents argued that with proper safety measures, raw milk could be safely consumed, while opponents highlighted health risks associated with pathogens.

Beyond the raw milk discussion, the committee approved Senate Bill 554, the Farmers Protection Act, designed to safeguard agricultural producers from loan denials based on their greenhouse gas emissions or fossil fuel usage. This bill now moves to the Senate Rules Committee, continuing its legislative journey alongside ongoing discussions in other committees.

Advocacy for Legalizing Raw Milk Sales Gains Momentum

The decision not to ban raw milk was influenced by strong advocacy and new amendments to Senate Bill 639. The revised bill incorporates provisions enabling research into raw milk safety through the Agriculture and Forestry Awareness Study Commission. Additionally, it mandates participation in herd share programs for obtaining unpasteurized milk. These changes reflect a shift towards recognizing alternative farming practices while addressing concerns over potential health risks.

Supporters of raw milk legalization emphasize the importance of consumer choice and access to locally produced food. Senator Jackson cited overwhelming public support, noting thousands of communications received advocating for raw milk consumption. Witnesses like Sen. Sophia Chitlik shared personal experiences with herd shares, highlighting the need for stringent safety standards to mitigate risks. Her research indicated that with proper testing and adherence to high-quality practices, raw milk could be consumed safely. Meanwhile, Robert Benor, a small farmer, urged lawmakers to engage directly with farmers to understand their commitment to quality and safety.

Protecting Farmers' Rights Through Legislative Action

Complementing the raw milk debate, the approval of Senate Bill 554 underscores efforts to protect farmers' rights. This legislation aims to prevent financial institutions from discriminating against agricultural producers based on their environmental impact or energy choices. By ensuring equal access to loans regardless of greenhouse gas emissions or fossil fuel reliance, the bill seeks to uphold the viability of farming operations across North Carolina.

Doug Holland, representing the North Carolina Dairy Producers Association, voiced opposition to raw milk sales, citing scientific evidence linking it to harmful pathogens. Despite this, the broader context of supporting farmers emerged as a unifying theme. The Farmers Protection Act aligns with growing concerns about maintaining agricultural sustainability amidst evolving regulatory landscapes. As the bill progresses to the Senate Rules Committee, stakeholders anticipate further deliberations that balance economic needs with environmental considerations. The House version of the bill remains under review, indicating continued legislative focus on these critical issues affecting North Carolina's agricultural community.