NC H779

Phases out traditional lagoon and sprayfield animal waste management systems serving swine farms by September 1, 2027, except for systems part of waste-to-energy facilities producing renewable energy.

Establishes minimum humane standards for cows, poultry, and swine enforced by the Board of Agriculture, prohibiting confinement that prevents animals from lying down, standing up, extending limbs, or turning around freely.

Prohibits farm operators from transporting, selling, or receiving sick or injured cows for human food supply and requires humane on-farm killing methods deemed acceptable by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

Directs the Division of Public Health and Department of Agriculture to study antibiotic use in North Carolina livestock, including supply chain examination, facility surveys in high-density counties, and antibiotic resistance trends, with findings due January 1, 2021.

Humane standards violations constitute a Class 2 misdemeanor; standards take effect January 1, 2020, while other provisions take effect upon enactment.