NC S639

Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services must update the Strategic Plan for Protecting Agricultural Water Resources by October 1, 2026, addressing water infrastructure needs, conservation practices, cost-share assistance, and flood mitigation methods

Establishes a 10-member Feral Swine Working Group within the Wildlife Resources Commission to develop a statewide plan for controlling feral swine damage on private and public lands, with annual reporting requirements

Allows local governments to deny special use permits for properties owned by business entities for less than three years if the proposed land use negatively impacts agricultural production, with exceptions for residential construction and utility uses

Increases penalties for crop larceny and aquaculture theft: first offense is a Class H felony with minimum $250 fine; second or subsequent offense is a Class G felony with minimum $500 fine (effective December 1, 2025)

Adds two excused school absences per academic year for student participation in equestrian sporting events, livestock shows, or similar agricultural events