Identical to S 277, filed 3/15/17.

Enacts new GS 143-131.2 (Local contract preference), which applies only to Robeson County and the cities within the County.

Authorizes Robeson County and its municipalities, when contracting for construction or repair work or for the purchase of apparatus, supplies, materials, or equipment involving the expenditure of public funds, to award public contracts to local contractors when the local contractor's bid is within 5% or $10,000, whichever is lower, of the lowest responsible, responsive nonlocal bid, and the local bid matches the lowest responsible, responsive nonlocal bid. Requires contractors who win public contracts to give preference to local businesses and residents in purchasing, subcontracting, and employment on the contract, and directs contractors to submit Community Preference Plans, which define the steps the contractor is taking to give preference to local businesses and residents.