The North Carolina Senate has voted to override Democratic Governor Roy Cooper's veto of the state's annual farm bill, initiating a legislative showdown over the bill's impact on wetlands. The Republican-led Senate successfully pushed the legislation through despite the Governor's objections and concerns raised by environmental advocates.

Governor Cooper vetoed the bill last week, echoing criticisms from environmental groups about a provision that they argue could heighten the risk of pollution and flooding, particularly in light of a recent Supreme Court ruling and existing state regulations. However, Republicans contend that these changes simply align state wetland oversight with federal standards and primarily affect isolated areas with minimal flood risk.

Senator Brent Jackson, a Republican from Sampson County and the bill's primary sponsor, highlighted the philosophical differences regarding wetland definitions and the extent of land affected. The Governor's administration asserts that the bill could leave approximately half of the state's wetlands unprotected.

Senator Graig Meyer, a Democrat representing Orange County, voiced opposition to the provision, emphasizing the potential for increased flood damage during hurricanes and the impact on North Carolina residents, including farmers.

The bill now proceeds to the Republican-controlled House. If the House also votes to override the veto with a similar margin, the bill will become law. The House is scheduled to vote on the farm bill and other veto overrides on Tuesday.

The North Carolina Farm Act of 2023 addresses over 30 agricultural issues, including limitations on fines for timber removal near bodies of water and notification requirements for veterinary office inspections.