For Immediate Release

Raleigh, NC - Yesterday Rep. Jon Hardister (R- Guilford, Majority Whip) introduced HB 418 - Create NC Golf Council. Reps. Jamie Boles (R-Moore), Holly Grange (R-New Hanover) and Howard Hunter (D-Hertford) joined Hardister as primary sponsors of the bill.

This legislation aims to create a council that is charged with the promotion and cultivation of the game of golf in North Carolina. It will focus on fostering the economic development, tourism, recreation and community involvement that the sport can bring. The legislation also aims to promote the values that are instilled through golf, such as patience, etiquette, integrity and respect.

The council would be comprised of two members appointed by the House; two appointed by the Senate; and three, including the chairman, appointed by the governor. Members of the commission must have a reasonable understanding of the game of golf. The council would be situated in the N.C. Department of Commerce. 

Studies have estimated that the annual impact on North Carolina's economy is approximately $4 billion. 

"Golf creates thousands of jobs and generates billions of dollars in revenue," Hardister said. "This council would show our commitment to the game of golf as a major part of our State's economy. It would also help to enhance the social, educational and cultural impact that the game has in North Carolina."

“I was thrilled to see this legislation,” said Mike Barber, President of the First Tee of the Triad. “Hats off to Rep. Hardister and the other legislators who have invested in a key portion of the economy in North Carolina. I believe North Carolina can be and is the golf capital of the world. This is a huge economic generator for our State.”

“The formation of the Golf Council is a great idea," said Mark Brazil, Tournament Director of the Wyndham Championship. "As it relates to what golf can do for economic development and tourism, we are easily one of the top-five states in the country. I look forward to working with the Golf Council and everyone in the sport to see how we can help one another and elevate the landscape of golf in our great state. A special thanks to Rep. Hardister for his vision and good work in developing the Golf Council.”

"As allied leaders in the $4 billion golf industry, which provides 70,000 jobs for North Carolinians, we enthusiastically support the formation of an official Golf Council. We welcome the opportunity to work with the Council to promote and expand the economic, environmental and social contributions golf has made for over a century," said Tim Kreger, Executive Director of Carolinas Golf Course Superintendents Association.

Here is a link to the bill:

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2019/hb418

Contact:

Rep. Jon Hardister

JonHardister@gmail.com