NC H816

Creates Article 50D in Chapter 106 authorizing tobacco growers to self-assess through the Tobacco Growers Association of North Carolina to promote grower interests.

Allows the Association to conduct a referendum on levying an assessment on flue-cured tobacco sold in North Carolina, with a maximum rate of 15 cents per 100 pounds of tobacco marketed.

Assessment requires approval by more than two-thirds of referendum votes to be collected; buyers deduct the assessment from prices paid to producers and remit collections to the Department of Agriculture monthly.

Tobacco growers may request refunds by December 31 by submitting proof of payment, with refunds issued within 30 days.

Assessment can be terminated if at least 10% of tobacco growers petition for a new referendum within six months, with termination occurring if a majority votes against continuation or the Association fails to hold the referendum.