Understanding the Legal Definition of a Cotton-Producing State

Definition & Meaning

A cotton-producing state is defined as any U.S. state that produced an average of twenty thousand bales of cotton annually during the five-year period from 1960 to 1964. If a state did not meet this production threshold, it could be combined with other states to reach the required average. Additionally, as of the 2008 cotton crop, Kansas, Virginia, and Florida are also recognized as cotton-producing states regardless of their historical production levels.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, Texas is a well-known cotton-producing state that consistently exceeds the production threshold. In contrast, a state like Virginia, which may not have historically produced enough cotton, is still recognized as a cotton-producing state due to its inclusion starting in 2008.

State-by-state differences

State Status as Cotton-Producing State
Texas Yes
Kansas Yes (from 2008)
Virginia Yes (from 2008)
Florida Yes (from 2008)

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Cotton-producing state A state that meets specific cotton production criteria. Focuses on historical production levels and specific inclusion criteria.
Agricultural state A state with significant agricultural output across various crops. Broader category that includes all types of agricultural production.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved in cotton production or related agricultural activities, ensure you understand the implications of being in a cotton-producing state. You may want to explore federal programs or subsidies available to you. For assistance, consider using US Legal Forms to access legal templates that can help you navigate agricultural regulations. If your situation is complex, seeking professional legal advice may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Average production threshold: 20,000 bales annually ()
  • States included from 2008: Kansas, Virginia, Florida
  • Primary legal reference: 7 USCS § 2116

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

A state must have an average annual production of twenty thousand bales of cotton during the specified period or be included by federal regulations.