Contains whereas clauses.

Enacts Article 14D to GS Chapter 136, establishing the Municipal Winter Road Operations Cost Share Program (Program) within the Department of Transportation (Department). Specifies the article’s purpose as improving municipal preparedness and response for snow and ice events by supporting the acquisition of equipment, staffing readiness, and coordinated contracting for snow and ice removal on municipal streets and public rights-of-way. Authorizes the Department to reimburse up to 75% of the four listed snow-related costs incurred by a municipality so long as the municipality contracts with one or more private service providers located within the state that are capable of performing snow and ice removal using appropriately equipped vehicles, to provide supplemental snow and ice removal services. Authorizes reimbursement for municipal removal of snow or ice so long as the services meet the two weather related requirements set forth in the statute. Authorizes the Department to adopt rules establishing minimum contractual standards. Requires any equipment used under a Program contract be equipped with recording and GPS tracking devices capable of recording route coverage, duration, and time stamps so that data can be collected for verification of services, billing and reimbursement, and operational transparency. Requires municipalities receiving reimbursement to provide a public plowing status map. Provides for application process. Tasks the Department with administering the Program and reporting annually to the specified NCGA committee. 

Appropriates $10 million in recurring funds from the General Fund to the Department for each fiscal year beginning in 2026-27 to support operational costs under Article 14D. Appropriates $20 million from the General Fund to the Department for 2026-27 to support the acquisition and installation of snow and ice-removal equipment. Specifies that the funds appropriated do not revert, and remain available until expended. 

Appropriates $5 million from the Highway Fund to the Department for 2026-27 to build up a salt and brine reserve to distribute to local governments in need, with priority to be given based on need, geography, and population.

Effective July 1, 2026.