RALEIGH, (SGRToday.com) - Tobacco growers have been assessing themselves since 1991 in order to further research and education into tobacco. But later this month, that assessment -- 10 cents per 100 pounds of flue-cured and burley tobacco sold -- could go away if it's not reauthorized.

According to the state's Agriculture Department, the program has allocated about $300,000 annually to support tobacco-related research and extension projects at N.C. State University.

State law requires that a referendum be held every six years. If passed with a two-thirds majority vote, the assessment will continue through 2021.

Ballots will be available for tobacco growers at county extension offices on Nov. 19.