The Daily Bulletin: 2023-03-15

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The Daily Bulletin: 2023-03-15

PUBLIC/HOUSE BILLS
H 130 (2023-2024) ENERGY CHOICE/SOLAR DECOMMISSIONING RQMTS. (NEW) Filed Feb 15 2023, AN ACT TO (I) LIMIT CITIES AND COUNTIES FROM PROHIBITING CONSUMER CHOICE OF ENERGY SERVICE BASED UPON THE TYPE OR SOURCE OF ENERGY TO BE DELIVERED AND (II) REQUIRE RESPONSIBLE DECOMMISSIONING OF NEWLY SITED UTILITY-SCALE SOLAR PROJECTS UPON CESSATION OF OPERATIONS.

House amendment to 1st edition makes the following changes. Amends GS 160A-203.3(a) (applicable to cities) and GS 153A-145.11(a) (applicable to counties) by also barring cities and counties from adopting ordinances that prohibit or has the effect of prohibiting the sale, purchase, or installation of an appliance utilized for cooking, space heating, water heating, or any other appliance included under the definition of “white good” under GS 130A-290(a)(definitions pertaining to solid waste management). Adds new GS 160A-203.3(d) and GS 153A-145.11(d) that declares invalid any municipal or county ordinance that prohibits or has the effect of prohibiting the activities described in (a).

Intro. by Arp, Saine, Wray, Miller.GS 153A, GS 160A
H 186 (2023-2024) JUV JUST MODS/DOI EXPENSES/TECH CHANGES. (NEW) Filed Feb 22 2023, AN ACT TO MODIFY THE TRANSFER PROCESS FOR JUVENILES WHO ALLEGEDLY COMMITTED CERTAIN FELONIES, TO MODIFY THE CONFIDENTIALITY OF CERTAIN INFORMATION CONCERNING JUVENILES UNDER INVESTIGATION, TO MODIFY THE INTERROGATION PROCEDURES FOR CERTAIN JUVENILES, TO MODIFY THE SERVICE OF SUMMONS FOR JUVENILE PETITIONS, TO CLARIFY THE PROCESS FOR COURT-ORDERED EVALUATIONS FOR JUVENILES, TO CLARIFY MINORITY SENSITIVITY TRAINING FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL, TO CLARIFY JUVENILE DETENTION TRANSFER, TO MAKE VARIOUS TECHNICAL AND CONFORMING CHANGES, AS RECOMMENDED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, DIVISION OF JUVENILE JUSTICE, TO CREATE LAWS TO EVALUATE WHETHER A JUVENILE HAS THE CAPACITY TO PROCEED, TO MODIFY CERTAIN LAWS RELATED TO SECURE CUSTODY ORDERS, TO AUTHORIZE CERTAIN DEPARTMENT OF INSURANCE LEASE EXPENSES, AND TO MAKE TECHNICAL CHANGES TO S.L. 2023-97.

House committee substitute to the 1st edition makes the following changes.

Further amends GS 7B-1806, adding a new provision deeming a defense of lack of personal jurisdiction or insufficiency of service of process to be waived if a parent, guardian, or custodian and juvenile avail themselves to the court and an objection is not raised at the initial court appearance. 

Modifies new GS 7B-1902.5, which authorizes courts to impose alternatives to juvenile detention under the supervision of a juvenile court counselor, to limit the court's authority to only juveniles not alleged to have committed an offense that would be a Class A, B1, B2, C, D, E, F, or G felony if committed by an adult.

Revises new GS 7B-3103, which authorizes courts to order the Division of Juvenile Justice of the Department of Public Safety or any law enforcement agency to release to the public specified information about a juvenile upon making three written findings in the order, to include in the required findings that the filed petition alleges the juvenile committed at least one offense that would be a Class A, B1, B2, C, D, E, F, or G felony if committed by an adult (previously required a finding that the petition alleges an offense that would be a Class A, B1, B2, or C felony if committed by an adult). Additionally amends the information that is subject to disclosure to include the juvenile's last name rather than only the initial of the juvenile's last name. 

Intro. by Davis, Pyrtle, Carson Smith, A. Jones.GS 7B, GS 114, GS 153A
H 194 (2023-2024) STATE BAR AUTHORITY FOR CERTAIN FEES.-AB Filed Feb 23 2023, AN ACT TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE BAR TO CHARGE AND COLLECT CERTAIN FEES.

House committee substitute to the 1st edition changed the act's long title. 

Intro. by Stevens.GS 84
H 362 (2023-2024) FIX OUR DEMOCRACY. Filed Mar 14 2023, AN ACT AMENDING THE NORTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTION TO ESTABLISH A NONPARTISAN REDISTRICTING PROCESS; REENACTING LEGISLATION THAT ESTABLISHED A NONPARTISAN METHOD FOR JUDICIAL ELECTIONS; EXTENDING THE WAITING PERIOD FOR FORMER LEGISLATORS WHO BECOME LOBBYISTS; ELIMINATING THE REQUIREMENT FOR WET INK REGISTRATION; PROVIDING FOR ONLINE VOTER REGISTRATION, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THAT PURPOSE, AND AUTOMATIC VOTER REGISTRATION; INCREASING TRANSPARENCY BY REQUIRING ADEQUATE NOTICE OF MEETINGS OF ALL LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEES AND SESSIONS OCCURRING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COMPLEX AND REQUIRING LIVE VIDEO AND AUDIO STREAMING OF ALL LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE AND COMMISSION MEETINGS AND SESSIONS OCCURRING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COMPLEX; ENSURING VOTING PLACES ON CERTAIN COLLEGE CAMPUSES; PROHIBITING VOTER ROLL PURGING; MAKING VARIOUS CHANGES TO THE CAMPAIGN FINANCE LAWS REGARDING TRANSPARENCY IN SOURCES OF SPENDING, DIGITAL ADVERTISEMENT CAMPAIGNS, PROTECTIONS AGAINST FOREIGN INTERFERENCE IN ELECTIONS, AND LIMITING SUPER PAC INFLUENCE; REESTABLISHING PUBLIC FINANCING FOR JUDICIAL CAMPAIGNS; AND RESTORING CITIZENSHIP RIGHTS OF CERTAIN OFFENDERS.

Identical to S 306, filed 3/14/23.

Includes whereas clauses.

Part I.

Subject to approval by voters at the November 2024 statewide general election, amends the North Carolina Constitution as follows.

Adds new Section 25 to Article II requiring the NCGA to establish a nonpartisan process to revise electoral districts for the NCGA and the US House of Representatives after the return of every decennial census. Requires that under this process: (1) the NCGA will have no role in revising electoral districts for the NCGA or US House of Representatives; (2) each member of the NC Senate and NC House of Representatives and the US House of Representatives must represent, as nearly as may be, an equal number of inhabitants; (3) each electoral district must consist of contiguous territory; (4) to the extent practicable and consistent with federal law, no county can be divided in the formation of an electoral district for the NC Senate or NC House; (5) when established, the electoral districts for the NC Senate and NC House remain unaltered until the return of another decennial census; and (6) electoral districts adopted pursuant to the process have the force and effect of acts of the NCGA.

Makes conforming changes to Sections 3 and 5 of Article II. Makes a conforming change to Section 22(5) of Article II by removing redistricting bills from those exempt from the Governor’s veto.

Sets out the language to be included on the ballot.

Part II.

Enacts new Article 26 to GS Chapter 163, Nomination and Election of Appellate, Superior, and District Court Judges, providing the following. 

New GS 163-350 provides for the applicability of Article 26 to the nomination and election of justices of the Supreme Court, judges of the Court of Appeals, and superior and district court justices (hereafter, justices and judges).

New GS 163-351 provides for a nonpartisan primary election method for the nomination of justices and judges when there are more than two candidates for a single office or the number of candidates for a group of offices exceeds twice the number of positions to be filled when the filing period closes. Provides for the canvass of the primary and determination of nominations in the primary and election winners. 

New GS 163-352 provides for the form for notice of candidacy, the withdrawal of candidacy, and the certification of the candidate as a registered voter. Requires justices and judges to file their notices of candidacy with the State Board of Elections (State Board) no earlier than noon on the first Monday in December and no later than noon on the third Friday in December preceding the election. Prohibits any person from filing a notice of candidacy for more than one office or group of offices governed by Article 26 or GS 163-106.2, including Governor, Lieutenant Governor, all State executive officers, superior and district court judges, US Congress members, and district attorneys. Requires designation of candidacy at the time of filing when there are two or more vacancies for the office of justice or judge; sets out requirements for seeing election for a specialized district judgeship. Requires a person filing notice of candidacy for superior court judge to be a resident, at the time of filing, of the district as it will exist at the time the person would take office; sets out the same requirement for the nomination of a person as a superior court judge.

New GS 163-353 establishes a filing fee of 1% of the annual salary of the office sought. Provides for fee refunds for the withdrawal of candidacy or upon death of the candidate, as specified.

New GS 163-354 provides for the filing of a written petition in lieu of payment of the filing fee, as specified.

New GS 163-355 provides for the certification of notices of candidacy by the State Board and subsequent notification of local boards of elections.

New GS 163-356 sets out the requirements for filling a vacancy occurring in a judicial district for superior court judge, which requires there to be an election for one or more terms in that district to fill the vacancy(ies), setting out special rules for nomination and election.

New GS 163-357 authorizes the State Board to extend the filing period for five days for any offices for which candidates have not filed that are to be filled under Article 26. Details the process to be followed when a candidate is disqualified or dies before the primary, a candidate is alive and fails to withdraw after close of filing, or a candidate dies, is qualified, or fails to qualify after the person is elected. 

New GS 163-358 provides for elections to fill a vacancy in an office that is created after the primary filing period opens but more than 60 days before the general election. Provides that the State Board must designate a special filing period of one week for candidates for that office. Provides for a second primary election if two or more qualified candidates file and the vacancy occurs more than 63 days before the date of the second primary for members of the General Assembly, and a general election if two or more qualified candidates file and the vacancy occurs more than 64 days before the date of the second primary which must be held on the same day as the general election for members of the General Assembly. 

New GS 163-359 permits any person who will become qualified by age or residence to register to vote in the general election for which the primary is held, even though not so qualified by the date of the primary, to register for the primary and general election prior to the primary and then to vote in the primary after being registered. Prohibits such persons from registering earlier than 60 days nor later than the last day for making application to register for primary elections pursuant to GS 163-82.6(d) prior to the primary. 

New GS 163-360 sets the primary date for the same date as established for primary elections under GS 163-1(b), which provides for primaries to be on the Tuesday next after the first Monday in May preceding each general election to be held in November.

New GS 163-361 provides for the form of official ballots. Requires official ballots to be printed by the county board of elections, as specified. Provides requirements for the distribution of official ballots.

New GS 163-362 provides for counting ballots in primaries and elections to be in the same manner for nonpartisan municipal elections under Article 24 of GS Chapter 163.

New GS 163-363 establishes that the conduct of elections are governed by Article 12 of GS Chapter 163 (Precincts and Voting Places), except as provided by Article 26.

Makes conforming changes to GS 18C-112(e)(1), GS 163-1(b), GS 163-22.3, GS 163-82.10B, GS 163-106.2(a), GS 163-106.3, GS 163-106.5, GS 163-107(a), GS 163-107.1, GS 163-108, GS 163-111(c)(1), GS 163-114, and GS 163-165.5. Makes additional clarifying changes and makes language gender neutral.

Amends GS 163-122 to exempt elections under new Article 26 of GS Chapter 163 from the provisions for unaffiliated candidates nominated by petition. Amends GS 163-123 to exempt nonpartisan elections, except for elections under new Article 26 of GS Chapter 163, from the statute's provisions concerning declaration of intent and petitions for write-in candidates in partisan elections.

Effective January 1, 2024, and applies to primaries and elections held on or after that date.

Part III.

Amends GS 120-304, extending the amount of time that a former legislator must wait before registering as a lobbyist to two years. Previously the waiting period was either the close of session or six months after leaving office, whichever was later. Extends the amount of time a public servant or former public servant must wait before registering as a lobbyist to two years after leaving office or end of employment (was, six months). Extends the amount of time an employee of any State agency must wait before registering to lobby the State agency that previously employed them to two years (was, six months). Effective October 1, 2023.

Part III-A.

Amends GS 163-82.6 to allow an electronic signature on a voter registration application.

Part IV.

Enacts new GS 163-82.5A to require the SBOE to ensure that the following are available to the public on its website: (1) online application for voter registration, the content of which must be equivalent to the form provided by designated voter registration agencies; (2) online assistance to those applying to register to vote; (3) online completion and submission by applicants of the voter registration application, including the applicant's signature; and (4) online receipt of completed voter registration applications. Deems an application to be submitted to the election authority on the date it is received. Sets out requirements for an applicant's signature. Requires the website to generate an immediate electronic confirmation that the application has been received. Requires the SBOE to accept an online voter registration application and ensure that the individual is registered to vote in this State if: (1) the individual meets the same voter registration eligibility requirements applicable to individuals who register to vote by mail and (2) the individual provides a signature in the specified manner. Requires the SBOE to ensure that a registered voter may update their registration information online. 

Makes conforming changes to account for the online registration in GS 163-82.3, GS 163-82.6, and GS 163-82.10.

Requires the SBOE to establish appropriate technological security measures to protect against unauthorized access to information and requires ensuring that online voter registration is provided in a way that is accessible to persons with disabilities.

Above provisions are effective December 1, 2023.

Appropriates $215,000 in recurring funds for each year of the 2023-25 biennium and $90,000 in nonrecurring funds for 2023-24 from the General Fund to the SBOE to implement online voter registration. Effective July 1, 2023.

Part V.

Amends GS 163-82.3 and GS 163-82.6 authorizing county boards of elections to accept automatic voter registration.

Amends GS 163-82.19 to require, beginning January 1, 2024, the Division of Motor Vehicles, in consultation with the State Board of Elections, to develop and implement a method by which eligible individuals shall be automatically registered to vote. Requires DMV officials taking driver's license applications to affirmatively inquire whether the applicant wishes to register to vote or update their registration, note the applicant's response, and register the applicant to vote if the applicant wishes. The applicant must attest to the information provided for voter registration. Confidentiality of voter information must be maintained by the State Board of Elections.

The above provisions are effective January 1, 2024.

Amends GS 163-82.20 to require, beginning January 1, 2025, voter registration agencies (which include state offices that accept applications for public assistance or provide services for persons with disabilities or for unemployment benefits) to provide, in consultation with the State Board of Elections, an application process for automatic voter registration with each recertification, renewal, or change of address relating to the service or assistance of the agency. Specifies certain procedural requirements substantially similar to those provided for in GS 163-82.19, as amended. Requires electronic transmittal of applications to the appropriate board of elections. Provide that if an ineligible person registers to vote, the person is not eligible to vote but is not automatically subject to criminal penalties. Makes it a Class I felony to willfully and knowingly and with fraudulent intent give false information on the voter registration application.

Amends GS 163-82.20A to require informing a person when they are restored to citizenship and all required filings are complete of automatic voter registration. Effective January 1, 2024.

Part VI.

Amends GS 143-318.14A to specify that reasonable public notice (might intend to require adequate public notice, as defined below) of all commission, committee, and standing subcommittee meetings must be given to all General Assembly members; members of the commission, committee, or subcommittee; and to the Legislative Services Office (was, only that reasonable public notice must be given without specifying the recipient of the notice). Requires that the notice be posted on General Assembly’s website by the Legislative Services Office.  Defines adequate public notice as written or electronic notice that is posted and mailed or e-mailed to those who requested notice at least 48 hours before the time of the meeting.  Requires that the notice include the time, date, location, and to the extent known, the agenda of the meeting. Requires that the agenda for a noticed meeting be readily available for public inspection no less than 24 hours in advance of the time of the meeting and prohibits changing the agenda except for items of an emergency nature, after the notice has been made available to the public. Requires that commission, committee, or standing subcommittee members receive the text of all bills, proposed committee substitutes, and amendments that will be considered during the scheduled meeting no later than 24 hours in advance of the meeting. Prohibits considering or acting on a bill, proposed committee substitute, or amendment that has not been made available to the members as required.

Requires the Legislative Services Officer to ensure live audiovisual streaming of all floor proceedings and committee meetings held in the Legislative Complex, to include public participation and comment to the extent allowed by the technology, and access to the recorded live stream on a centralized website within 48 hours after all floor proceedings or committee meetings.

Part VII.

Amends the procedure for absentee voting under GS 163-231 to only require one witness instead of two. Makes conforming changes including removing the provision allowing one notary to act as a witness instead of the two witnesses.  Makes conforming changes to GS 163-229. Amends GS 163-230.2 to allow a request form for an absentee ballot to be delivered to the county board of elections in person or by mail, email, or fax.

Part VIII.

Amends GS 163-129 by adding that the county board of election’s ability to demand and use any school or other State, county, or municipal building, or any other building, which is supported or maintained with tax revenues, also includes ensuring the use of voting places on college campuses. Also requires the State Board of Elections to make reasonable efforts to provide means for other college campuses to be used as voting places.

Part IX.

Amends GS 163-82.14 to require before the county board of elections removes from its voter registration record any person the Department of Health and Human Services has listed as deceased, that the county board confirm that the complete date of birth of the deceased person and the last four digits of the Social Security number are identical to the person to be removed from the voter registration records. Sets out alternative record matching when the last four digits of the social security number are not available. Allows the county board of elections to remove a person from its list if the registrant fails to respond after no less than 60 days (previously, no time frame was specified) to a confirmation mailing and does not vote or appear to vote in an election beginning on the date of the notice and ending on the day after the date of the second general election for the US House of Representatives that occurs after the date of the notice. Adds to the requirements for the confirmation notice that if a voter has provided the county board of elections with an email address, to allow the use of an email that (1) provides the confirmation mailing has been sent, (2) contains information on how the registrant may confirm the registrant's current address online, and (3) contains information on how the voter may continue to be eligible to vote if the registrant has moved outside the county. Allows, if no email is provided, contacting the voter via phone. Prohibits a county board of elections from removing a registrant from its list of registered voters solely based on the county board receiving a return mailing as "undeliverable" without taking steps to confirm the registrant's current address by other means.

Part X.

Amends GS 163-278.12 (special reporting of contributions and independent expenditures) and GS 163-278.12C (special reporting of electioneering communications) by adding the following. Requires that filers reporting donations of $1,000 or more under the aggregate (except for political committees that do not receive more than $6,400 or the amount set in GS 163-287.13, which sets out limitations on contributions, from any one person in an election) disclose the identity of the original source (as defined in the act) of the funds, the amounts of those donations, and any intermediaries who transferred the funds before they were contributed to the filer. Requires any person or entity making a donation of $1,000 or more, in the aggregate, in an election to a person or entity required to report donations under these requirements to inform that person or entity of the identity of the original sources of funds being transferred, the amounts of the persons' original funds being transferred, and the identity of any persons who previously transferred the original funds.

Amends GS 163-278.39 by adding the following requirement to those that must be met in order for any sponsor to sponsor an advertisement in the print media or on radio or television that constitutes an expenditure, independent expenditure, electioneering communication, or contribution that is required to be disclosed. Requires that an advertisement made by a sponsor other than a candidate, political party organization, an individual solely spending the individual's own personal funds received through wages, investment income, or bequests or a person solely spending money received through ordinary commercial transactions include the legend or include the specified statement naming the top three donors who helped pay for the message.

XI.

Amends GS 163-278.6 (applicable to Article 22A, Regulating Contributions and Expenditures in Political Campaigns) by defining the term digital communication as any communication, for a fee, placed or promoted on a public-facing website, web application, or digital application, including a social network, advertising network, or search engine. Amends the definition of electioneering communication to include a digital communication that meets all of the already specified criteria. Also amends the definition of advertisement in GS 163-278.38Z (applicable to Part 1A, Disclosure Requirements for Media Advertisements), to include messaging through digital communication that constitutes a contribution or expenditure.

Amends GS 163-278.39 by making the statute’s requirements for political advertisements applicable to the sponsorship of an advertisement through digital communication. Establishes size and content requirements for digital communication advertisements. Makes conforming changes.

Amends GS 163-278.39C to make the statute’s disclosure requirements applicable to the sponsor of an advertisement though digital communication.

Enacts new GS 163-278.39D requiring that digital communication covered by GS 163-278.39(a) (setting out the requirements to be met for any sponsor to sponsor an advertisement in the print media or on radio or television that constitutes an expenditure, independent expenditure, electioneering communication, or contribution required to be disclosed) to submit that digital communication to the State Board of Elections along with the disclosure information required under G.S. 163-278.39. That information is to be on the State Board of Elections website and is deemed public record. Sets out information that must be included on the website.

Effective September 1, 2023.

Part XII.

Amends GS 163-278.39 by adding that a foreign national expending funds for political advertising that addresses a specific issue to influence State or local government policy, a State or local government officer, or an election must include a statement in the advertisement (1) that identifies the foreign national and (2) disclosing that the foreign national sponsored the advertising.

Part XIII.

Enacts GS 163-278.12B requiring a political committee that makes only independent expenditures to notify the Board of Elections of any: (1) contribution in excess of $1,000 received by the committee before an election but after the period covered by the last report due before that election and (2) any contribution or donation in excess of $1,000 made by the committee before an election but after the period covered by the last report due before that election. Sets out required timing of the notifications. Requires a person who receives such contribution or donation and transfers more than $1,000 of the funds to another person to disclose specified information on the contribution to that person when the transfer is made.

Part XIV.

Recodifies GS 163-278.69 as GS 163-278.158.

Enacts new Article 22I of GS Chapter 163 providing as follows, effective when the act becomes law, with distributions from the Fund beginning in the 2022 election year. States the purpose of Article 22J. Establishes the North Carolina Public Campaign Fund (Fund) as an alternative source of campaign financing for candidates who demonstrate public support and voluntarily accept strict fundraising and spending limits. Provides that the Article is available to candidates for justice of the Supreme Court and judges of the Court of Appeals in elections held in 2024 and thereafter. The Fund is to finance the election campaigns of certified candidates for office and to pay administrative and enforcement costs of the State Board of Elections (Board). 

The following are sources of money in the Fund: (1) designations made by taxpayers to the Public Campaign Fund, (2) Fund revenues distributed for an election that remain unspent or uncommitted at the time the recipient is no longer a certified candidate in the election, (3) money ordered returned to the Fund, (4) voluntary donations made directly to the Fund, and (5) money collected from the $60 surcharge on attorney membership fees (this provision is effective January 1, 2024, and applies to membership fees due for 202).

Requires individuals choosing to receive campaign funds from the Fund to file a declaration of intent to participate as a candidate for a stated office. Sets out requirements for the timing of the filing and for an affirmation that only one political committee will handle all contributions, expenditures, and obligations for the candidate and that the candidate will comply with the contribution and expenditure limits and other requirements. Requires participating candidates seeking certification to receive campaign funds from the Fund to first obtain qualifying contributions from at least 425 registered voters for Supreme Court candidates, or 400 registered voters for Court of Appeals candidates, in a sum not to exceed the specified amount of maximum qualifying contributions. Sets out the procedure under which the Board will certify candidates as meeting the necessary requirements. 

Sets out the following restrictions on contributions and expenditures with respect to participating and certified candidates. (1) Beginning January 1 of the year before the election and before the filing of a declaration of intent, a candidate for office may accept in contributions up to $25,000 from sources and in amounts permitted by Article 22A and may expend up to $25,000 for any campaign purpose. Candidates exceeding these limits will be ineligible to file a declaration of intent or receive funds from the Fund. (2) From the filing of a declaration of intent through the end of the qualifying period, a candidate may accept only qualifying contributions, contributions under $10 from North Carolina voters, and personal and  family contributions. The total contributions the candidate may accept during this period must not exceed the defined maximum qualifying contributions for that candidate. In addition to these contributions, the candidate may expend during this period only the remaining money raised under (1). With named exceptions, multiple contributions from the same contributor to the same  candidate must not exceed $500. (3) After the qualifying period and through the date of the general election, the candidate must expend only the funds the candidate received from the Fund pursuant to GS 163-278.155(b)(4) (funds distributed in a contested general election in specified amounts for Supreme Court and Court of Appeals candidates) plus any funds remaining from the qualifying period. (4) During the qualifying period, the candidate may contribute up to $1,000 of that candidate's own money to the campaign. Allows accepting contributions of $1,000 from each member of that candidate's family (spouse, parent, child, brother, and sister). Allows treating up to $500 of a contribution from the candidate's family member as a qualifying contribution if it meets specified requirements. (5) Requires a candidate and the candidate's committee to limit the use of all revenues permitted by this subsection to expenditures for campaign-related purposes only. (6) Any contribution received by a participating or certified candidate that falls outside what is permitted must be returned to the donor as soon as practicable. Contributions intentionally made, solicited, or accepted in violation of this Article are subject to civil penalties. (7) Requires a candidate to return to the Fund any amount distributed for an election that is unspent and uncommitted at the date of the election, or at the time the individual ceases to be a certified candidate, whichever occurs first. Allows a decision to participate in the Fund to be revoked by the specified deadline.

Allows candidates in elections under GS 163-358 (appears to intend GS 163-357, as enacted, filling vacancies in office created after primary filing period opens) to participate in the Fund and sets out requirements for such candidates.

Requires distributions from the Fund to be made within five business days after a certified candidate's name is approved to appear on the ballot in a contested general election, but no earlier than five business days after the primary. Sets out the amounts to be distributed from the fund in contested general elections. 

Sets out candidate reporting requirements. 

Violations of the Article can result in a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation or three times the amount of any financial transaction involved in the violation, whichever is greater. Also, for good cause shown, may require candidates to return distributed amounts to the Fund.

Amends GS 84-34 by requiring active members of the North Carolina State Bar to pay a $60 surcharge for the Fund, with the option for the member to designate that the surcharge required be used in its entirety for the Judicial Voter Guide described in GS 163-278.158, as recodified. Effective January 1, 2024, and applies to membership fees due for 2024.

Enacts GS 105-159.3, directing the Department of Revenue to allocate $3 from the income taxes paid each year by each individual with an income tax liability of at least that amount to the Fund, subject to each taxpayer's individual approval. Provides for notice and opportunity for the taxpayer to elect this allocation, as well as instructions for individual income tax returns. Provides for requirements for the Department under the new statute, including consultation with the State Board and parameters regarding software packages used to prepare income tax returns. Effective for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2024. 

Makes conforming changes to GS 163-278.5, GS 163-278.23, GS 163-278.99E, and SL 2013-381, Section 38.1(a).

Makes conforming repeals of SL 2013-360 Section 21.1(i), (j), and (l); and SL 2013-381, Section 38.1(l), (m), and (o).

Part XV.

Amends GS 13-1 by amending the triggers to the automatic restoration of the rights of citizenship to a person convicted of a crime, to now include: (1) the release from active punishment to a period of post-release supervision or parole of a person whose sentence was not suspended by the court (was, unconditional discharge of an inmate, probationer, or of a parolee by the State agency having jurisdiction over that person or of a defendant under a supervised sentence by the court); and (2) upon the suspension of an active sentence resulting in the imposition of an intermediate or community punishment. Makes conforming and clarifying changes to GS 13-2. Amends GS 163-82.14 concerning the State Board of Elections’ program to update the official lists of eligible voters, to require the State Board to report to the county board of elections specified information on an individual whose rights have been forfeited and not yet restored. Also requires the Executive Director of the State Board of Elections to notify the appropriate county board of elections of any conviction for which citizen rights have been forfeited and not yet restored. Provides that when a county receives one of these notices and the person’s name is removed from the voting records, if the person objects to the removal, then the notice the county board received is prima facie evidence for the preliminary hearing, not only that the person was convicted of a felony, but also that the registrant’s citizenship rights have not been restored.

Part XVI.

Makes it unlawful to try to evade the reporting and disclosure requirements of Parts X through XIII of the act by structuring, or attempting to structure, any solicitation, contribution, donation, expenditure, disbursement, or other transaction, punishable by at least the amount contributed or undisclosed, but not to exceed double the amount contributed or undisclosed.

Part XVII.

Includes a severability clause.

Part XVIII.

Provides that the act is effective on the date the act becomes law, unless otherwise provided.

Intro. by Clemmons, Willingham, T. Brown, Hawkins.CONST, GS 13, GS 18C, GS 105, GS 120, GS 120C, GS 143, GS 163
H 371 (2023-2024) FOX TRAPPING/CENTRAL AND WESTERN NC. Filed Mar 14 2023, AN ACT TO PROVIDE FOR AN OPEN SEASON FOR TAKING FOXES WITH WEAPONS AND FOR TAKING FOXES AND COYOTES BY TRAPPING IN ALL COUNTIES WEST OF INTERSTATE 95.

Amends GS 113-291.4B, pertaining to hunting foxes and trapping foxes and coyotes in certain areas, to allow for an open season in counties that are located west of or traversed by I-95. (Currently, only applies to 12 specified counties.)

Repeals the following local acts: (1) Alamance: SL 1989-825 (pertaining to the per diem allowance for the Board of Pharmacy, appears to intend SL 1989-297) and SL 2008-44 (establishing open season on foxes and coyotes through rubber cleat traps June 1 through February 28 of each year); (2) Allegheny:  SL 2011-32 (an open season for taking foxes and coyotes with lawful weapons or traps from October 15 through March 1 in Allegheny and Surry Counties); (3) Anson: SL 1989-879 (establishing fox season in Anson and Stanly Counties); (4) Ashe: SL 2007-51, as rewritten by Section 2 of SL 2010-82 (pertaining to open season on foxes in Ashe County); (5) Avery: SL 1985-180 (establishing an open season on foxes December 1 through February 1 each year with bag limits); (6) Burke: SL 1989-163 (establishing open season on foxes by trapping in Burke County); (7) Caswell: SL 1937-411 (creating open season on foxes in Caswell County);  (8) Chatham: SL 1995-80 (amending various local laws in Chatham County including fox trapping season, a lease to the Chatham County College on Aging, and school board elections); (9) Franklin, Granville, Vance: Sections 1, 2, and 3 of SL 1993-208, as amended; (10) Granville: SL 1963-670 (establishing fox season); 27 (11) Halifax: Section 3 of SL 1925-571 (making it unlawful to hunt foxes at any time) and SL 1995-279 (establishing a trapping season for foxes); (12) Haywood: SL 1963-322 (regulating the hunting of red foxes in Haywood County; (13) Hoke, Person, Robeson, Scotland: SL 1985-108, as amended (allowing taking of foxes in Hoke and Robeson Counties and parts of Scotland County); (14) Iredell: SL 1985-664 (permitting the taking of foxes in certain townships in the county); (16) Lee: SL 1977-636 (permitting hunting with dogs and barring the sale of foxes except for the purposes of restocking in Burke, Caldwell, Lee, Harnett, Pamlico, and Martin Counties); (17) Lincoln: Sections 1 and 2 of SL 1925-449 (establishing a hunting season for foxes); (18) Madison: (making it unlawful for any person to poison, trap, or kill red foxes in Avery, Mitchell, Madison, or Yancy Counties); (19) Northampton: SL 1993-727 (changing the season for taking foxes in Caswell and Northampton Counties); (20) Richmond: SL 2001-133 (establishing a trapping season for foxes in Richmond County); (21) Rockingham: SL 1985-179, as amended (permitting the taking of foxes during a short open season): (22) Stanly: 1989-879 (establishing fox season in Anson and Stanly Counties); (23) Surry: Section 6 of SL 1925-474 with respect to fox seasons and SL 2011-32 (establishing a season for taking of foxes and coyotes in Surry County); (24) Wilkes: SL 1971-385 (making it lawful to take foxes in Wilkes County at any time); (25) City of Winston-Salem: Section 1 of SL 2010-82 (open season on foxes without bag limits in Winston-Salem from November 1 through February 28 of each year); and (26) Yadkin: SL 1953-199 (unlawful to bring foxes into the county and set them at large) and SL 2017-73 (permitting fox trapping in Yadkin and Davie Counties).

Amends GS 113-133.1 (pertaining to limits upon local regulation of wildlife resources and retaining certain local acts) as follows. Deletes references to former GS 113-111. Limits the scope of SL 1955-286 that is reserved so that the misdemeanor set forth in Section 2 pertaining to letting foxes loose in Anson and Union Counties are the only things that still remain law. Makes conforming changes to reflect repeal of certain local laws set forth above.

Effective October 1, 2023, and applies to offenses committed on or after that date.

Intro. by K. Hall, Penny, Clampitt.GS 113
H 377 (2023-2024) GRADE "A" DAIRY ASSESSMENT ACT. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO ESTABLISH A VOLUNTARY ASSESSMENT FOR GRADE "A" DAIRY PRODUCERS.

Enacts Article 68B, GS Chapter 106, titled the Grade "A" Dairy Assessment Act. Sets forth the Article's purpose and defined terms. Authorizes the NC Dairy Producers Association (Association) to conduct a referendum on whether to levy an assessment, with every dairy producer eligible to vote. Defines dairy producer as a person who is a State resident and is involved in the production of Grade "A" milk, as defined, for commercial sale. Sets ballot requirements for proposed assessments and caps the amount at five cents for each hundredweight of Grade "A" milk produced by a dairy producer. Provides the Association discretion to set the assessment at an amount lower than that approved with annual increases as specified. Requires the Association to determine the amount of the assessment, the time and place of the referendum, and referendum procedures. Deems voter eligibility disputes to be determined by the Association. Requires the Association to provide reasonable notice of a referendum. 

Sets limitations and procedures for assessment payment and collection. Prohibits collection unless more than half of the votes cast in the referendum are in favor of the assessment, whereby the Association must notify the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (DACS) of the assessment amount and effective date, and DACS must notify dairy producers. Provides for payment on each hundredweight of Grade "A" milk produced in the State and sold commercially by either (1) milk handlers and dairy cooperatives deducting the amount from the proceeds of sales and monthly remitting the collection to DACS or (2) dairy producers paying the assessment. Sets a 5% penalty on dairy producers for assessments of the previous year's sales unpaid by January 20, plus 1% of the unpaid assessment for each month after that date the assessment remains unpaid. Authorizes the Association to conduct inspections and audits, with dairy producers responsible for their cost if willful failure to remit assessments is revealed. Provides for the Association to bring a civil action against a dairy producer to collect unpaid assessments, penalties, and reasonable costs for an inspection or audit, with action costs, including attorneys' fees, recoverable if the Association is successful. 

Directs DACS to quarterly remit collections to the Association to be used to promote interests of the dairy industry, as specified. Provides a procedure for dairy producers to request a refund on grounds that no benefit from the assessment was received. 

Establishes a petition procedure for dairy producers to submit a petition to DACS and require the Association to conduct a referendum within six months' time to determine whether to continue the assessment. Provides for the assessment's expiration upon either (1) the majority of the votes cast in the referendum being against continuing the assessment or (2) the Association's failure to conduct a referendum within the required six-month period. Adds that if a majority of the votes cast are in favor of the assessment's continuation, then subsequent referendums are barred for three years.

Amends GS 106-559.1, GS 106-563.1, and GS 106-567.1 to specify that that these statutes refer to assessment referendums for milk products conducted pursuant to the provisions of existing Article 50, GS Chapter 106.

Intro. by McNeely, Saine, N. Jackson, Biggs.GS 106
H 378 (2023-2024) FIREFIGHTERS CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECKS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT PROVIDING THAT CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECKS MAY BE CONDUCTED THROUGH THE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY, CLERK OF COURT, OR A THIRD-PARTY VENDOR FOR FIREFIGHTER APPLICANTS AND CURRENT MEMBERS WHO HAVE BEEN RESIDENTS OF THE STATE FOR FIVE OR MORE YEARS, PROVIDING THAT THE FIREFIGHTER CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECK REQUIREMENT SHALL NOT APPLY TO JUNIOR MEMBER APPLICANTS AND CURRENT MEMBERS UNDER EIGHTEEN, AND CLARIFYING THAT CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECKS ARE REQUIRED FOR FIREFIGHTERS PRIOR TO OFFERING THE POSITION.

Amends GS 153A-233, GS 153A-234, and GS 160A-292 to allow counties, incorporated fire departments, fire marshals, and fire chiefs to conduct the criminal history check required of applicants for all paid or volunteer positions with a fire department or fire-fighting and prevention service through the office of the clerk of superior court or a third-party vendor, rather than pursuant to the procedures of GS 143B-943, if the applicant has been a State resident for at least five years and did not report any charges or conviction on their application. Additionally exempts junior members under 18 from the statutes' criminal history record check requirements. Makes conforming changes to GS 143B-943 to refer to criminal history record checks rather than verified criminal history record checks.

Further amends GS 153A-233 to refer to incorporated fire department with whom counties contract for fire-fighting or prevention services (was, incorporated volunteer fire departments). 

Intro. by Blackwell, Saine, Torbett, Riddell.GS 143B, GS 153A, GS 160A
H 379 (2023-2024) FAIR USE OF CONSUMER REPORTS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO PROHIBIT CREDIT REPORTING AGENCIES FROM REPORTING LAWSUITS FOR EJECTMENT THAT DO NOT RESULT IN A JUDGMENT FOR THE LANDLORD.

Enacts Article 2B, GS Chapter 75, to prohibit credit reporting agencies from collecting, storing, reporting, or using to determine a composite-type score, information regarding any lawsuit against the consumer for ejectment or summary ejectment by the consumer's landlord if there was no judgement entered in favor of the landlord. Includes four defined terms. Defines credit reporting agency to include individuals, partnerships, corporations, trusts, estates, cooperatives, association, government or governmental subdivision or agency, or any other entity that regularly engages in the practice of assembling or evaluating consumer credit information or other information on consumers for the purpose of furnishing consumer reports to third parties, for monetary fees, dues, or on cooperative nonprofit basis. Defines consumer report to includes written, oral, or other communication by a consumer reporting agency, as described, used or expected to be used or collected for the purpose of serving as a factor in establishing a consumer's eligibility for employment, hosing, credit, or other federally authorized purpose. Applies to credit information collected and reports disbursed on or after October 1, 2023. 

Intro. by Alston, Lofton, Harris.GS 75
H 380 (2023-2024) PROVIDE SUPPORT TO JAIL INSPECTORS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS TO HIRE TWO ADDITIONAL STATEWIDE JAIL INSPECTORS DUE TO THE INCREASED TIME REQUIRED FOR THOSE INSPECTIONS RESULTING FROM THE GROWING COMPLEXITY OF INMATE HEALTH AND SAFETY REGULATIONS.

Appropriates $211,502 in recurring funds for each year of the 2023-25 biennium from the General Fund to the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Health Services Regulation, Construction Section, to hire two full-time Jail Inspectors to inspect local confinement facilities. Effective July 1, 2023.

Intro. by Cunningham.APPROP
H 381 (2023-2024) FUNDS FOR LOCAL AIRPORT PROJECTS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR THE WASHINGTON-WARREN AND HYDE COUNTY AIRPORTS.

Appropriates $17 million for 2023-24 from the General Fund to the Office of State Budget and Management for a directed grant to the Washington-Warren Airport Authority to acquire property to build a new STEM Education Center, Southern Atlantic Drone Workforce and Data Fusion Center, additional hangars, and related facilities.

Appropriates $2 million for 2023-24 from the General Fund to the Office of State Budget and Management for a directed grant to Hyde County Airport for the airport's expansion and development and for related facilities to accommodate drone technology and general drone aviation.

Effective July 1, 2023.

Intro. by Kidwell, Bell.APPROP, Beaufort, Hyde
H 382 (2023-2024) REGISTERED NURSES IN SCHOOLS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO ALLOW LICENSED REGISTERED NURSES TO BE EMPLOYED AS SCHOOL NURSES.

Enacts GS 115C-315(d2), allowing licensed registered nurses with at least two years' experience serving in a hospital or health clinic to serve as a school nurse. Prohibits requiring these nurses to possess or promise to obtain any other certification or license as a condition of serving as a school nurse. Requires such registered nurses employed by the unit's governing body to be paid under the certified school nurse pay scale established by the State Board of Education (State Board).

Repeals GS 115C-315(d1), which requires school nurses not certified by the American Nurses' Association or the National Association of School Nurses to continue to be paid based on the noncertified nurse salary range established by the State Board.

Grants the State Board authority to adopt temporary implementing rules.

Intro. by Bradford, White, Cotham, Cunningham.GS 115C
H 383 (2023-2024) FUNDS/MATTAMUSKEET LODGE. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR THE RENOVATION OF MATTAMUSKEET LODGE.

Includes whereas clauses.

Appropriates $17 million for 2023-24 from the General Fund to the Wildlife Resources Commission to be used as title indicates. Effective July 1, 2023.

Intro. by Kidwell, Bell.APPROP
H 384 (2023-2024) CITIES/USE OF PERPETUAL CARE TRUST FUNDS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT EXPANDING THE PURPOSES FOR WHICH CITIES MAY USE PERPETUAL CARE TRUST FUNDS WHEN THE TRUST FUND WAS CREATED SOLELY FOR THE PURPOSE OF ACCEPTING A CEMETERY AND PERPETUAL CARE TRUST FUNDS FROM A CEMETERY COMPANY.

Amends GS 160A-347, governing a city's creation of a perpetual care trust fund for cemeteries it owns or controls. Adds that when a city creates such a fund with the sole purpose of accepting perpetual care trust funds from a cemetery company regulated by the North Carolina Cemetery Commission that has elected to or is required to transfer a cemetery and perpetual care trust funds to the city, the city may either: (1) transfer the principal and income from the perpetual care trust fund to the city's general fund for establishing, operating, and maintaining cemeteries or (2) use the principal and income from the perpetual care trust fund for perpetually caring for, beautifying, and expanding the city's cemeteries.

Intro. by Tyson.GS 160A
H 385 (2023-2024) REGULATION OF BATTERY-CHARGED SECURITY FENCES. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO PROHIBIT COUNTIES AND CITIES FROM ADOPTING CERTAIN ORDINANCES, RULES, AND REGULATIONS RELATED TO BATTERY-CHARGED SECURITY FENCES AND TO DEFINE AND ESTABLISH REQUIREMENTS FOR THOSE BATTERY-CHARGED SECURITY FENCES.

Enacts new GS 153A-134.1 (pertaining to regulation of battery-charged security fences--counties) and GS 160A-194.1(pertaining to regulation of battery-charged fences-cities). Defines a battery-charged security fence to mean an alarm system and ancillary components, or equipment attached to that system, including a fence, a battery-operated energizer intended to periodically deliver voltage impulses to the fence, and a battery charging device used exclusively to charge the battery. Establishes the following seven requirements that all battery-charged security fences are required to meet: (1) interfaces with a monitored alarm device enabling the alarm system to transmit a signal intended to summon the business or law enforcement in response to an intrusion or burglary; (2) is located on property that is not designated by a county or city exclusively for residential use; (3) has an energizer powered by a commercial storage battery that is not more than 12 volts of direct current; (4) has an energizer that meets the standards established by the most current  version of the International Electrotechnical Commission Standard 60335-2-76; (5) is surrounded by a non-electric perimeter fence or wall that is not less than 5 feet in height; (6) does not exceed 10 feet in height or 2 feet higher than the non-electric perimeter fence or wall, whichever is higher; (7) is marked with conspicuous warning signs that are located on the battery-charged security fence at not more than 30-foot intervals and read: "WARNING—ELECTRIC FENCE".

Bars counties and cities from (1) adopting ordinances, rules, or regulations that require a permit, fee, review, or approval for the use or installation of a battery-charged security fence beyond any permit that may be required by an ordinance adopted by the county’s governing board under GS 74D-11; (2) imposing installation or operating requirements inconsistent with the described standards; (3) prohibiting the installation or use of battery-operated security fences on property zoned for nonresidential purposes.  

Intro. by McNeely, Moss.GS 153A, GS 160A
H 386 (2023-2024) INCREASE PERMISSIBLE INTERSTATE SPEED LIMIT. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO INCREASE THE MAXIMUM PERMISSIBLE SPEED LIMIT ON INTERSTATE HIGHWAYS AND TO MAKE VARIOUS CONFORMING CHANGES IN LIGHT OF THAT INCREASE.

Amends GS 20-141(d) to authorize the Department of Transportation (DOT) to increase the speed limit to 75 miles per hour upon any part of a highway designated as part of the Interstate Highway System or any part of a controlled-access highway (either inside or outside the corporate limits of a municipality) where it is reasonable and safe to do so. (Currently, DOT may only increase the speed limit to 70 miles per hour.) 

Makes conforming changes to GS 20-141(j1) to also make it a Class 3 misdemeanor when a person drives over 85 miles per hour where the maximum speed is 75 miles per hour.  Makes conforming changes to GS 20-16 (authority of division to suspend driver’s license upon specified convictions) and GS 20-16.1 (mandatory suspension of a driver’s license without a preliminary hearing on receiving record of specified convictions) to account for the new speed limit. Effective December 1, 2023, and applies to offenses committed on or after that date. 

Specifies that prosecutions for offenses committed before the effective date of the act are not abated or affected by the act, and the statutes that would be applicable but for the act remain applicable to those prosecutions.

Intro. by Lowery, Biggs.GS 20
H 387 (2023-2024) MEDAL OF VALOR AWARD FOR FIRST RESPONDERS. (NEW) Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO CREATE THE MEDAL OF VALOR AWARD FOR FIRST RESPONDERS.

Amends GS 147-12 (pertaining to the powers and duties of the Governor) and GS 143A-13 (pertaining to the office of the Lieutenant Governor) to authorize the Governor and Lieutenant Governor to award the Medal of Valor Award to a first responder or first responder unit that has performed great acts of heroism, while under threat of personal risk to their safety, beyond the call of duty in the field upon recommendation of the highest-ranking official within a department or agency employing first responders. Specifies limits on the number of such awards permitted per year, including an exception for special circumstances meriting an additional award in a calendar year. Specifies that a first responder includes any firefighter, paramedic, law enforcement officer, emergency medical services personnel, or rescue squad member.  Requires the Governor and Lieutenant Governor to each maintain an internet accessible link and application form on a State website where nominations can be put forward, to also contain information on the Medal of Valor Award.

Intro. by Miller.GS 143A, GS 147
H 388 (2023-2024) CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION/EXPENDITURE THRESHOLDS. (NEW) Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO INCREASE THE THRESHOLD FOR CASH CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS AND EXPENDITURES FROM FIFTY DOLLARS TO ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS.

Amends GS 163-278.11 (pertaining to the contents of campaign treasurer’s statement of receipts and expenditures) to increase the threshold for reporting the identity of a campaign contributor from $50 to $100.  Amends GS 163-278.14 (pertaining to identification of campaign contributions) to raise the financial threshold for accepting a monetary donation from a donor that does not need to be a form of a check, draft, money order, credit card charge, debit, or other noncash method that can be subject to written verification from $50 to $100.

Intro. by Cleveland, Kidwell, Ward, Crutchfield.GS 163
H 389 (2023-2024) NCGA/SAFE WORKPLACE POLICY. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO CREATE A CONFIDENTIAL PROCESS FOR REPORTING AND RESOLVING INCIDENTS OF SEXUAL HARASSMENT AND OTHER IMPROPER WORKPLACE BEHAVIOR IN THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, TO REQUIRE TRAINING TO PREVENT WORKPLACE HARASSMENT AND OTHER IMPROPER WORKPLACE BEHAVIOR IN THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, TO ADOPT CLEAR SANCTIONS, AND TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS.

Enacts new Article 7E, the “Safe Workplace Act,” (Act) to GS Chapter 120. Finds that that early reporting and intervention are most effective in resolving actual or perceived incidents of improper workplace behavior. Encourages the prompt reporting of incidents or concerns so that rapid and constructive action can be taken before relationships become irreparably strained and before offensive conduct continues or escalates. Further encourages good-faith reporting of all perceived incidents of improper workplace behavior, regardless of the offender's identity or position.

Specifies the Act applies to legislators, regular, full-time, part-time, temporary, and contractual employees of the General Assembly, as well as unpaid volunteers and pages. Also applies to the interaction of these individuals away from the legislative complex at legislature-sponsored events, professional meetings and seminars, and all activities  that involve legislative business.

Defines sexual harassment. Requires the Legislative Services Commission (LSC) and the Legislative Ethics Committee (LEC), by December 31, 2023, to jointly develop, adopt, and implement "zero tolerance" policies regarding sexual harassment, abuse, misconduct, gender discrimination, and all other forms of improper workplace behaviors. Specifies that the policies must include: (1) mandatory annual ethics training for all legislators, legislative officers, and legislative employees of the General Assembly that focuses on identification and prevention of sexual harassment, abuse, misconduct, gender discrimination, and all other forms of discrimination in the workplace; (2) effective and clear sanctions for incidents of sexual harassment, abuse, misconduct, gender discrimination, and all other forms of workplace discrimination that is applicable to all legislators, legislative officers, and legislative employees; and (3) a complaint and investigation process.  Requires that those policies be incorporated by reference into each chamber's permanent rules. Requires the LSC to contract with an independent third party to provide the following services related to implementation of the Act: (1) confidential information and advice to individuals who report improper workplace behavior; (2) investigative support and advice to the designated employee receiving and  investigating reports of misconduct; (3) formal investigative actions if an informal resolution cannot be made as discussed below.

Designates the head of the Human Resources Office, the independent third party retained pursuant to the Act, and the persons designated by the majority and minority leaders of each chamber as individuals who should receive reports from persons who have either experienced or witnessed improper workplace behavior. Requires those individuals to take steps to resolve the problem informally. Prohibits retaliation against an individual for reporting sexual harassment or unlawful discrimination.  If the report cannot be resolved to the satisfaction of the reporting individual, directs the independent third party to investigate the report. Specifies that the investigation is confidential. Requires reports involving a legislator or a legislator's staff to be brought to the attention of the presiding office and minority leader; reports involving employees must be brought to the attention of the Legislative Services Officer. Requires prompt and remedial action if the investigation supports a finding of a violation of the Act. Sets out appropriate responsive and disciplinary actions. If the investigation does not support a finding that the Act has been violated, requires that the individual making the report and the individual against whom the allegation was made be informed and advised that retaliation for making the report is prohibited. Provides for an appeal process. 

Appropriates $250,000 from the General Fund to the LSC for the 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 fiscal years to implement the Act, specifying $50,000 for literature and training materials and $200,000 for the contractual services specified above.

Effective July 1, 2023.

Intro. by Prather, Dahle, Rudow, Autry.APPROP, GS 120
H 390 (2023-2024) FSU CARRYFORWARD CERTAIN FUNDS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO PERMIT CERTAIN FUNDS APPROPRIATED TO FAYETTEVILLE STATE UNIVERSITY TO BE CARRIED FORWARD THROUGH THE END OF THE 2023-2025 FISCAL BIENNIUM.

Provides that the $2.5 million allocated from the State Capital and Infrastructure Fund to the UNC Board of Governors for Fayetteville State University (FSU) for the 2022-23 fiscal year for the FSU Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner Training Program, and the FSU Innovation and Entrepreneurship Hub, do not revert and remain available until the end of the 2023-25 fiscal biennium. Effective June 30, 2023.

Intro. by Charles Smith, F. Jackson, Lucas, Wheatley.APPROP
H 391 (2023-2024) CIVIC YOUTH GROUP ACCESS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO ALLOW CIVIC YOUTH GROUPS TO GIVE PRESENTATIONS ABOUT ORGANIZATION MEMBERSHIP TO STUDENTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS.

Amends GS 115C-206 (pertaining to the Superintendent's recommendations to the State Board of Education [Board] concerning increased involvement in and use of public schools) to require public school units to permit certain youth groups identified as a patriotic society specified in the GS 115C-206 the opportunity to give a presentation no longer than 10 minutes long on the purpose of the group, how to become a member of the group, and encouraging civic education. Specifies when presentations should be scheduled and clarifies that presentation time does not count toward any instructional hour requirements. (Currently, Board directs local boards of education to give priority to those civic groups in the use of school facilities and does not reference a presentation.) Amends GS 115C-207 (local school boards), GS 115C-218.75 (charter schools) and GS 115C-238.66 (regional schools) to remove language relating to giving priority and access to the civic youth groups discussed above. Replaces that language with a requirement that the local boards develop policies to give those groups access in line with GS 115C-206 specified above. Applies beginning with the 2023-2024 school year.

Intro. by Ross, Hardister, Bell, Crutchfield.GS 115C
H 392 (2023-2024) REFLEXOLOGIST RIGHT TO WORK ACT. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO EXEMPT CERTIFIED REFLEXOLOGISTS FROM OVERSIGHT FROM THE NORTH CAROLINA BOARD OF MASSAGE AND BODYWORK THERAPY.

Amends GS 90-624 (activities not requiring a license to practice Massage and Bodywork Therapy) to include a nationally certified reflexologist engaged in the practice of reflexology who has a current certification from the American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB) or its successor entity, or an individual who is a reflexology student working to obtain certification from the ARCB or its successor entity under the supervision of an ARCB-certified reflexologist who obtains certification within 12 months of beginning the certification process. Defines reflexology.

Intro. by Riddell, Warren, Belk, Brody.GS 90
H 393 (2023-2024) APPLIANCE LEMON LAW. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO REQUIRE MANUFACTURERS TO HONOR FIX OR REPLACE WARRANTIES WITHIN 45 DAYS.

Enacts new GS 66-375 to require a home appliance manufacturer who gives an express or implied warranty that the manufacturer will fix or replace a defective appliance and the appliance is so defective that it can't serve its purpose, to honor the warranty by tendering one of the following to the purchaser within no more than 45 days: the purchaser's repaired appliance, a replacement appliance, or a detailed explanation as to why the damage is not covered by the warranty.

Intro. by Kidwell, Moss, Ward, Hardister.GS 66
H 394 (2023-2024) AUTHORIZE FEDERAL NOTARIES. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO AUTHORIZE FEDERAL NOTARIES TO ACT IN THIS STATE.

Amends GS 10B-5 as the title indicates.

Intro. by Cleveland.GS 10B
H 395 (2023-2024) COUNTIES/SEMIANNUAL ASSESSMENTS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT AUTHORIZING COUNTIES TO PROVIDE THAT ASSESSMENTS MAY BE PAID IN EITHER SEMIANNUAL OR ANNUAL INSTALLMENTS.

Identical to S 250, filed 3/8/23.

Amends GS 153A-199 to authorize boards of commissioners to determine that assessment payments may be made by semiannual payments in addition to annual installment payments authorized under existing law. Allows for the resolution to set the number of installments, with up to 40 semiannual installments or 20 annual installments permitted. Details when semiannual payments may be due, allowing the board to provide that the first installment is due with interest either on (1) the date when property taxes are due, with one installment with interest due on the same date in each successive six-month time period, or (2) 60 days after the date that the assessment roll is confirmed, with future installments and interest due on that same day in each successive six-month time period. 

Intro. by Majeed, Setzer, Cotham, Belk.GS 153A
H 396 (2023-2024) REPEAL PARTICIPATION IN ERIC. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO REPEAL THE AUTHORIZATIONS FOR THE STATE BOARD OF ELECTIONS TO PARTICIPATE IN THE ELECTRONIC REGISTRATION INFORMATION CENTER.

Prohibits the State Board of Elections (Board) from entering into an agreement, membership, or other participation in the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC), unless approved by an act of the NCGA.

Makes conforming repeals of (1) SL 2013-281, Section 18.2 (requiring the Board to seek ways to share and cross-check information on voting records and voter registration with other states to improve the accuracy of voter registration lists, using resources such as ERIC and by entering into interstate compacts for this purpose); (2) SL 2022-74, Section 261(4) (allowing the use of specified funds for an analysis of the State's voter registration data by ERIC and a subsequent mailing to affected individuals by the Board to improve the accuracy of voter registration records); and (3) SL 2022-74, Section 26.3 (requiring an act of the NCGA to approve changes made to election policy when continued membership in ERIC requires the Board or a local board of elections to change any of the policies or procedures related to elections in this State).

Intro. by Setzer, Moss, Saine, Howard.UNCODIFIED
H 398 (2023-2024) CHILD CARE ACT. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO REENACT THE CHILD CARE TAX CREDIT, TO EXPAND THE NORTH CAROLINA PREKINDERGARTEN (NC PRE-K) PROGRAM AND INCREASE CARE SUBSIDY BY APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THOSE PURPOSES, TO PROVIDE LUNCH IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS AT NO COST TO STUDENTS THROUGH AN ALLOCATION BASED ON SCHOOL FOOD AUTHORITY EVALUATIONS, TO APPROPRIATE FUNDS FOR PUBLIC CHILD CARE PROVIDED BY COMMUNITY COLLEGES, AND TO REQUIRE A REPORT ON THE FEASIBILITY AND ADVISABILITY OF A HIGH SCHOOL CHILD CARE APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM.

Part I.

Reenacts GS 105-151.11 (Credit for child care and certain employment-related expenses) as it existed immediately before its expiration on January 1, 2014. Recodifies the statute as GS 105-153.11. Provides for a tax credit for employment-related expenses incurred by a taxpayer based on the taxpayer's filing status, adjusted gross income, and qualifying dependent(s)'s status, with the applicable percentage changing depending on the dependent's age. Makes current percentage category A applicable with respect to dependents age 18 up to 25 (was, seven or older); current category B applicable with respect to dependents age 12 up to 18; new percentage category C applicable with respect to dependents age 6 up to 12; and new percentage category D (was, percentage category B) applicable to any other qualifying individual. Percentages range from 5.5% to 13% (was, 7% to 13%). Caps the amount of employment-related expenses for which a credit can be claimed at $3,000 for taxpayers with a household that includes one qualifying individual, and $6,000 for taxpayers with a household that includes more than one qualifying individual. Updates statutory references concerning calculations for nonresidents and part-time residents. Effective for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2024.

Part II.

Appropriates $200 million in recurring funds for 2023-25 from the General Fund to the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Child Development and Early Education, for the North Carolina Prekindgergarten Program to expand the number of slots by 32,000.

Part III.

Appropriates $35 million in recurring funds for 2023-25 from the General Fund to the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Child Development and Early Education, to increase funding for subsidized child care.

Part IV.

Amends GS 115C-263 to require public school units to have a school food authority to provide school nutrition services in the schools under their jurisdiction by offering students free lunch (was, local boards of education must provide to the extent practicable school nutrition services in the schools under their jurisdiction). Adds that a school food authority may offer students a free breakfast option, unless the student is eligible for the School Breakfast Program. Requires the State Board of Education, to the extent funds are available for this purpose, to allocate funds to school food authorities at public school units to provide students free healthy lunches. Requires, in issuing the allocation, that the amount be determined based on an evaluation of the authority’s nutrition services (sets out minimum requirements for the method and criteria used for the evaluation), that funds be distributed on a fair and equitable basis, and the allocation be issued at the beginning of the fiscal year, with the Board allowed to reserve for future allocation an amount not to exceed 10%. Specifies that funds allocated under this statute supplement and do not supplant funds from other sources for the same purpose.

Amends GS 115C-218.75 by requiring charter schools, GS 115C-238.72 by requiring regional schools, GS 115C-150.14 by requiring schools for students with visual and hearing impairments, and GS 116-239.8 requiring laboratory schools, to provide school nutrition services according to GS 115C-263 and GS 115C-263 (setting out requirements for school nutrition programs, including that they participate in the National School Lunch Program). Makes conforming changes.

Appropriates $105 million in recurring funds for 2023-24 from the General Fund to the Department of Public Instruction to provide free lunch to public school students. Allows the use of funds appropriated to State Aid for Public Schools for this purpose if this funding is insufficient for 2023-24.

Appropriates $3,166,600 for 2023-24 from the General Fund to the Department of Public Instruction for 2023-24 to satisfy outstanding school nutrition program debt. Requires the use of funds appropriated to State Aid for Public Schools for this purpose if this funding is insufficient for 2023-24.

Gives the State Board of Education authority to adopt temporary rules to enact this section until permanent rules are adopted.

Part V.

Appropriates $10 million for 2023-24 from the General Fund to the Community Colleges System Office to be allocated proportionally to each community college with an active child care program that is available to the public to support and maintain that program. Requires the State Board of Community Colleges (State Board) to adopt a formula for allocating the funds. Requires funds to be allocated based on the number of children served and prioritizes awards based on the program's financial need. Funds remain available until expended. 

Requires community colleges that do not have a publicly available child care program to report to the State Board on the feasibility and advisability of implementing a program. Requires the State Board to report the information to the specified NCGA committee by March 31, 2024.

Part VI.

Requires the Department of Public Instruction, in consultation with partner agencies (Department of Health and Human Services, UNC Board of Governors, and the State Board), to report to the specified NCGA committee by December 31, 2024, on the feasibility and advisability of implementing a child care apprenticeship program in public high schools. Specifies information to be included in the report. Requires the NCGA committee to meet by February 28, 2025, to receive a presentation from the Department on the report. 

Part VII.

Unless otherwise indicated, effective July 1, 2023. 

Intro. by Logan, Autry, G. Brown, Pierce.APPROP, GS 105, GS 115C, GS 116

The Daily Bulletin: 2023-03-15

PUBLIC/SENATE BILLS
S 90 (2023-2024) SEARCHES OF STUDENT'S PERSON. Filed Feb 9 2023, AN ACT TO STANDARDIZE THE PROCEDURES FOR SEARCHING STUDENTS IN PUBLIC SCHOOL UNITS.

Senate committee substitute to the 1st edition makes the following changes. Deletes the content of proposed GS 115C-391.2, concerning searches of students, and instead replaces it with the following content. Requires that the policies the governing bodies of public school units adopt governing searches of a student's person or property be consistent with Article 27, Discipline, and US and NC constitutions, statutes, and regulations. Requires search performed by school officials under those policies to be performed using methods narrowly tailored to be as minimally intrusive as possible while investigating the suspected activity. Each policy must require that searches be conducted in private by one school official and one adult witness, both of whom must be the same sex as the student.

Intro. by Lazzara, Galey, Sawyer.GS 115C
S 135 (2023-2024) REGISTERED VET. TECH. MODIFICATION. Filed Feb 20 2023, AN ACT TO PREVENT PERSONS FROM USING A TITLE OR ABBREVIATION INDICATING THE QUALIFICATION AS A REGISTERED VETERINARY TECHNICIAN REGISTERED WITH THE NORTH CAROLINA VETERINARY MEDICAL BOARD.

Senate committee substitute to the 1st edition changes the act's effective date so that it applies to offenses committed on or after December 1, 2023, instead of October 1, 2023.

Intro. by Rabon.GS 90
S 187 (2023-2024) TEACHER LICENSURE CHANGES (NEW). Filed Mar 1 2023, AN ACT TO MAKE CHANGES TO TEACHER LICENSURE REQUIREMENTS.

Senate committee substitute to the 1st edition makes the following changes. Changes act’s long title. Deletes provisions of the 1st edition relating to reviving and expanding the program to allow retired educators to return to work in high-need schools.

Retains the amendments to GS 115C-270.20 to make three-year limited licenses for teachers renewable. Deletes requirements for renewal pertaining to evaluation of the teacher’s effectiveness every three years and for teachers teaching subjects that use the Education Value-Added Assessment System (EVAAS), the data must demonstrate that the teacher meets or exceeds expectations of growth.  Enacts new GS 115C-270.30(b)(6) (pertaining to teacher licensure renewal) to provide for the renewal of limited licenses by submission of affidavit signed by both the principal and the superintendent of the school where the teacher-applicant is currently assigned that states the following: (1) the teacher-applicant is currently employed by the local board of education; (2) the teacher is an effective teacher (for teachers who have available growth data under the EVAAS, the data must demonstrate that the teacher meets or exceeds expectations of growth); and (3) the teacher will be encouraged to continue to pursue a continuing professional license (CPL).

Deletes provisions related to an alternative to the examination requirements for converting from an initial professional license (IPL) and a residency license (RL) to a CPL. Deletes provisions related to licensure classes and teacher salaries.  Deletes proposed GS 115C-270.22 that granted a servicemember who (1) has a teaching license issued by an entity other than the Board and (2) relocates to North Carolina because of military orders for military service, a teaching license for the duration of the military orders if: (a) the servicemember provides the Board with a copy of the military orders requiring the relocation to North Carolina; (b) the servicemember remains in good standing with the licensing authority that issued the license and every other licensing authority that has issued a license to the servicemember that is similar in scope to the teaching license; and (c) the servicemember submits to the Board's authority for the purpose of standards of practice, discipline, and fulfillment of any continuing education requirements. Deletes changes to GS 115C-270.1 and GS 93B-15.1.

Specifies that for a limited license renewal that occurs on or before July 1, 2025, the State Board of Education will only require the teacher to meet the licensure renewal requirements of new GS 115C-270.30(b)(6).

Intro. by McInnis, Johnson, Barnes.GS 115C
S 206 (2023-2024) CONTROL SUB./OPIOID/VACCINE/AT HOME OMNIBUS. (NEW) Filed Mar 6 2023, AN ACT TO AMEND THE NORTH CAROLINA CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES ACT TO ESTABLISH NEW VIOLATIONS INVOLVING COUNTERFEIT CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES; TO EXPAND THE STATE'S DEFINITION OF OPIOID ANTAGONIST TO INCLUDE ALL OPIOID ANTAGONISTS APPROVED BY THE FEDERAL FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION FOR THE TREATMENT OF A DRUG OVERDOSE; AND TO ALLOW THE USE OF ALL SUCH FEDERAL FOOD AND DRUG-APPROVED OPIOID ANTAGONISTS IN NEEDLE AND HYPODERMIC SYRINGE EXCHANGE PROGRAMS; TO CONTINUE TO AUTHORIZE PHARMACISTS, PHARMACY INTERNS, AND PHARMACY TECHNICIANS TO ADMINISTER VACCINATIONS AND IMMUNIZATIONS IN RESPONSE TO THE EXPIRING PUBLIC READINESS AND PREPAREDNESS ACT; AND TO CONTINUE THE ACUTE HOSPITAL CARE AT HOME PROGRAM.

Senate committee substitute to the 1st edition makes the following changes.  Amends GS 90-108(12a) and (12b) to create exemptions to the prohibition on possessing, manufacturing, distributing, exporting, or importing the enumerated drug making materials with the intention, knowledge, or having reasonable cause to believe that the materials will be used to make a controlled substance to exempt a pharmacy, a pharmacist, a pharmacy technician, or a pharmacy intern licensed or permitted under Article 4A of Chapter 90 of the General Statutes engaging in activities related to the production or delivery of a controlled substance pursuant to a prescription. 

Intro. by McInnis.GS 90
S 239 (2023-2024) REDUCE BARRIERS TO STATE EMPLOYMENT. Filed Mar 8 2023, AN ACT TO REDUCE BARRIERS TO STATE EMPLOYMENT.

Senate committee substitute to the 1st edition amends proposed GS 126-8.6 by also directing the State Human Resources Commission to determine when a certification from a Comprehensive Transition and Postsecondary Education Program, rather than a four-year college degree, is the appropriate qualification for a position.

Intro. by Corbin, Lee, Johnson.GS 126
S 306 (2023-2024) FIX OUR DEMOCRACY. Filed Mar 14 2023, AN ACT AMENDING THE NORTH CAROLINA CONSTITUTION TO ESTABLISH A NONPARTISAN REDISTRICTING PROCESS; REENACTING LEGISLATION THAT ESTABLISHED A NONPARTISAN METHOD FOR JUDICIAL ELECTIONS; EXTENDING THE WAITING PERIOD FOR FORMER LEGISLATORS WHO BECOME LOBBYISTS; ELIMINATING THE REQUIREMENT FOR WET INK REGISTRATION; PROVIDING FOR ONLINE VOTER REGISTRATION, AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR THAT PURPOSE, AND AUTOMATIC VOTER REGISTRATION; INCREASING TRANSPARENCY BY REQUIRING ADEQUATE NOTICE OF MEETINGS OF ALL LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEES AND SESSIONS OCCURRING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COMPLEX AND REQUIRING LIVE VIDEO AND AUDIO STREAMING OF ALL LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE AND COMMISSION MEETINGS AND SESSIONS OCCURRING IN THE LEGISLATIVE COMPLEX; ENSURING VOTING PLACES ON CERTAIN COLLEGE CAMPUSES; PROHIBITING VOTER ROLL PURGING; MAKING VARIOUS CHANGES TO THE CAMPAIGN FINANCE LAWS REGARDING TRANSPARENCY IN SOURCES OF SPENDING, DIGITAL ADVERTISEMENT CAMPAIGNS, PROTECTIONS AGAINST FOREIGN INTERFERENCE IN ELECTIONS, AND LIMITING SUPER PAC INFLUENCE; REESTABLISHING PUBLIC FINANCING FOR JUDICIAL CAMPAIGNS; AND RESTORING CITIZENSHIP RIGHTS OF CERTAIN OFFENDERS.

Includes whereas clauses.

Part I.

Subject to approval by voters at the November 2024 statewide general election, amends the North Carolina Constitution as follows.

Adds new Section 25 to Article II requiring the NCGA to establish a nonpartisan process to revise electoral districts for the NCGA and the US House of Representatives after the return of every decennial census. Requires that under this process: (1) the NCGA will have no role in revising electoral districts for the NCGA or US House of Representatives; (2) each member of the NC Senate and NC House of Representatives and the US House of Representatives must represent, as nearly as may be, an equal number of inhabitants; (3) each electoral district must consist of contiguous territory; (4) to the extent practicable and consistent with federal law, no county can be divided in the formation of an electoral district for the NC Senate or NC House; (5) when established, the electoral districts for the NC Senate and NC House remain unaltered until the return of another decennial census; and (6) electoral districts adopted pursuant to the process have the force and effect of acts of the NCGA.

Makes conforming changes to Sections 3 and 5 of Article II. Makes a conforming change to Section 22(5) of Article II by removing redistricting bills from those exempt from the Governor’s veto.

Sets out the language to be included on the ballot.

Part II.

Enacts new Article 26 to GS Chapter 163, Nomination and Election of Appellate, Superior, and District Court Judges, providing the following. 

New GS 163-350 provides for the applicability of Article 26 to the nomination and election of justices of the Supreme Court, judges of the Court of Appeals, and superior and district court justices (hereafter, justices and judges).

New GS 163-351 provides for a nonpartisan primary election method for the nomination of justices and judges when there are more than two candidates for a single office or the number of candidates for a group of offices exceeds twice the number of positions to be filled when the filing period closes. Provides for the canvass of the primary and determination of nominations in the primary and election winners. 

New GS 163-352 provides for the form for notice of candidacy, the withdrawal of candidacy, and the certification of the candidate as a registered voter. Requires justices and judges to file their notices of candidacy with the State Board of Elections (State Board) no earlier than noon on the first Monday in December and no later than noon on the third Friday in December preceding the election. Prohibits any person from filing a notice of candidacy for more than one office or group of offices governed by Article 26 or GS 163-106.2, including Governor, Lieutenant Governor, all State executive officers, superior and district court judges, US Congress members, and district attorneys. Requires designation of candidacy at the time of filing when there are two or more vacancies for the office of justice or judge; sets out requirements for seeing election for a specialized district judgeship. Requires a person filing notice of candidacy for superior court judge to be a resident, at the time of filing, of the district as it will exist at the time the person would take office; sets out the same requirement for the nomination of a person as a superior court judge.

New GS 163-353 establishes a filing fee of 1% of the annual salary of the office sought. Provides for fee refunds for the withdrawal of candidacy or upon death of the candidate, as specified.

New GS 163-354 provides for the filing of a written petition in lieu of payment of the filing fee, as specified.

New GS 163-355 provides for the certification of notices of candidacy by the State Board and subsequent notification of local boards of elections.

New GS 163-356 sets out the requirements for filling a vacancy occurring in a judicial district for superior court judge, which requires there to be an election for one or more terms in that district to fill the vacancy(ies), setting out special rules for nomination and election.

New GS 163-357 authorizes the State Board to extend the filing period for five days for any offices for which candidates have not filed that are to be filled under Article 26. Details the process to be followed when a candidate is disqualified or dies before the primary, a candidate is alive and fails to withdraw after close of filing, or a candidate dies, is qualified, or fails to qualify after the person is elected. 

New GS 163-358 provides for elections to fill a vacancy in an office that is created after the primary filing period opens but more than 60 days before the general election. Provides that the State Board must designate a special filing period of one week for candidates for that office. Provides for a second primary election if two or more qualified candidates file and the vacancy occurs more than 63 days before the date of the second primary for members of the General Assembly, and a general election if two or more qualified candidates file and the vacancy occurs more than 64 days before the date of the second primary which must be held on the same day as the general election for members of the General Assembly. 

New GS 163-359 permits any person who will become qualified by age or residence to register to vote in the general election for which the primary is held, even though not so qualified by the date of the primary, to register for the primary and general election prior to the primary and then to vote in the primary after being registered. Prohibits such persons from registering earlier than 60 days nor later than the last day for making application to register for primary elections pursuant to GS 163-82.6(d) prior to the primary. 

New GS 163-360 sets the primary date for the same date as established for primary elections under GS 163-1(b), which provides for primaries to be on the Tuesday next after the first Monday in May preceding each general election to be held in November.

New GS 163-361 provides for the form of official ballots. Requires official ballots to be printed by the county board of elections, as specified. Provides requirements for the distribution of official ballots.

New GS 163-362 provides for counting ballots in primaries and elections to be in the same manner for nonpartisan municipal elections under Article 24 of GS Chapter 163.

New GS 163-363 establishes that the conduct of elections are governed by Article 12 of GS Chapter 163 (Precincts and Voting Places), except as provided by Article 26.

Makes conforming changes to GS 18C-112(e)(1), GS 163-1(b), GS 163-22.3, GS 163-82.10B, GS 163-106.2(a), GS 163-106.3, GS 163-106.5, GS 163-107(a), GS 163-107.1, GS 163-108, GS 163-111(c)(1), GS 163-114, and GS 163-165.5. Makes additional clarifying changes and makes language gender neutral.

Amends GS 163-122 to exempt elections under new Article 26 of GS Chapter 163 from the provisions for unaffiliated candidates nominated by petition. Amends GS 163-123 to exempt nonpartisan elections, except for elections under new Article 26 of GS Chapter 163, from the statute's provisions concerning declaration of intent and petitions for write-in candidates in partisan elections.

Effective January 1, 2024, and applies to primaries and elections held on or after that date.

Part III.

Amends GS 120-304, extending the amount of time that a former legislator must wait before registering as a lobbyist to two years. Previously the waiting period was either the close of session or six months after leaving office, whichever was later. Extends the amount of time a public servant or former public servant must wait before registering as a lobbyist to two years after leaving office or end of employment (was, six months). Extends the amount of time an employee of any State agency must wait before registering to lobby the State agency that previously employed them to two years (was, six months). Effective October 1, 2023.

Part III-A.

Amends GS 163-82.6 to allow an electronic signature on a voter registration application.

Part IV.

Enacts new GS 163-82.5A to require the SBOE to ensure that the following are available to the public on its website: (1) online application for voter registration, the content of which must be equivalent to the form provided by designated voter registration agencies; (2) online assistance to those applying to register to vote; (3) online completion and submission by applicants of the voter registration application, including the applicant's signature; and (4) online receipt of completed voter registration applications. Deems an application to be submitted to the election authority on the date it is received. Sets out requirements for an applicant's signature. Requires the website to generate an immediate electronic confirmation that the application has been received. Requires the SBOE to accept an online voter registration application and ensure that the individual is registered to vote in this State if: (1) the individual meets the same voter registration eligibility requirements applicable to individuals who register to vote by mail and (2) the individual provides a signature in the specified manner. Requires the SBOE to ensure that a registered voter may update their registration information online. 

Makes conforming changes to account for the online registration in GS 163-82.3, GS 163-82.6, and GS 163-82.10.

Requires the SBOE to establish appropriate technological security measures to protect against unauthorized access to information and requires ensuring that online voter registration is provided in a way that is accessible to persons with disabilities.

Above provisions are effective December 1, 2023.

Appropriates $215,000 in recurring funds for each year of the 2023-25 biennium and $90,000 in nonrecurring funds for 2023-24 from the General Fund to the SBOE to implement online voter registration. Effective July 1, 2023.

Part V.

Amends GS 163-82.3 and GS 163-82.6 authorizing county boards of elections to accept automatic voter registration.

Amends GS 163-82.19 to require, beginning January 1, 2024, the Division of Motor Vehicles, in consultation with the State Board of Elections, to develop and implement a method by which eligible individuals shall be automatically registered to vote. Requires DMV officials taking driver's license applications to affirmatively inquire whether the applicant wishes to register to vote or update their registration, note the applicant's response, and register the applicant to vote if the applicant wishes. The applicant must attest to the information provided for voter registration. Confidentiality of voter information must be maintained by the State Board of Elections.

The above provisions are effective January 1, 2024.

Amends GS 163-82.20 to require, beginning January 1, 2025, voter registration agencies (which include state offices that accept applications for public assistance or provide services for persons with disabilities or for unemployment benefits) to provide, in consultation with the State Board of Elections, an application process for automatic voter registration with each recertification, renewal, or change of address relating to the service or assistance of the agency. Specifies certain procedural requirements substantially similar to those provided for in GS 163-82.19, as amended. Requires electronic transmittal of applications to the appropriate board of elections. Provide that if an ineligible person registers to vote, the person is not eligible to vote but is not automatically subject to criminal penalties. Makes it a Class I felony to willfully and knowingly and with fraudulent intent give false information on the voter registration application.

Amends GS 163-82.20A to require informing a person when they are restored to citizenship and all required filings are complete of automatic voter registration. Effective January 1, 2024.

Part VI.

Amends GS 143-318.14A to specify that reasonable public notice (might intend to require adequate public notice, as defined below) of all commission, committee, and standing subcommittee meetings must be given to all General Assembly members; members of the commission, committee, or subcommittee; and to the Legislative Services Office (was, only that reasonable public notice must be given without specifying the recipient of the notice). Requires that the notice be posted on General Assembly’s website by the Legislative Services Office.  Defines adequate public notice as written or electronic notice that is posted and mailed or e-mailed to those who requested notice at least 48 hours before the time of the meeting.  Requires that the notice include the time, date, location, and to the extent known, the agenda of the meeting. Requires that the agenda for a noticed meeting be readily available for public inspection no less than 24 hours in advance of the time of the meeting and prohibits changing the agenda except for items of an emergency nature, after the notice has been made available to the public. Requires that commission, committee, or standing subcommittee members receive the text of all bills, proposed committee substitutes, and amendments that will be considered during the scheduled meeting no later than 24 hours in advance of the meeting. Prohibits considering or acting on a bill, proposed committee substitute, or amendment that has not been made available to the members as required.

Requires the Legislative Services Officer to ensure live audiovisual streaming of all floor proceedings and committee meetings held in the Legislative Complex, to include public participation and comment to the extent allowed by the technology, and access to the recorded live stream on a centralized website within 48 hours after all floor proceedings or committee meetings.

Part VII.

Amends the procedure for absentee voting under GS 163-231 to only require one witness instead of two. Makes conforming changes including removing the provision allowing one notary to act as a witness instead of the two witnesses.  Makes conforming changes to GS 163-229. Amends GS 163-230.2 to allow a request form for an absentee ballot to be delivered to the county board of elections in person or by mail, email, or fax.

Part VIII.

Amends GS 163-129 by adding that the county board of election’s ability to demand and use any school or other State, county, or municipal building, or any other building, which is supported or maintained with tax revenues, also includes ensuring the use of voting places on college campuses. Also requires the State Board of Elections to make reasonable efforts to provide means for other college campuses to be used as voting places.

Part IX.

Amends GS 163-82.14 to require before the county board of elections removes from its voter registration record any person the Department of Health and Human Services has listed as deceased, that the county board confirm that the complete date of birth of the deceased person and the last four digits of the Social Security number are identical to the person to be removed from the voter registration records. Sets out alternative record matching when the last four digits of the social security number are not available. Allows the county board of elections to remove a person from its list if the registrant fails to respond after no less than 60 days (previously, no time frame was specified) to a confirmation mailing and does not vote or appear to vote in an election beginning on the date of the notice and ending on the day after the date of the second general election for the US House of Representatives that occurs after the date of the notice. Adds to the requirements for the confirmation notice that if a voter has provided the county board of elections with an email address, to allow the use of an email that (1) provides the confirmation mailing has been sent, (2) contains information on how the registrant may confirm the registrant's current address online, and (3) contains information on how the voter may continue to be eligible to vote if the registrant has moved outside the county. Allows, if no email is provided, contacting the voter via phone. Prohibits a county board of elections from removing a registrant from its list of registered voters solely based on the county board receiving a return mailing as "undeliverable" without taking steps to confirm the registrant's current address by other means.

Part X.

Amends GS 163-278.12 (special reporting of contributions and independent expenditures) and GS 163-278.12C (special reporting of electioneering communications) by adding the following. Requires that filers reporting donations of $1,000 or more under the aggregate (except for political committees that do not receive more than $6,400 or the amount set in GS 163-287.13, which sets out limitations on contributions, from any one person in an election) disclose the identity of the original source (as defined in the act) of the funds, the amounts of those donations, and any intermediaries who transferred the funds before they were contributed to the filer. Requires any person or entity making a donation of $1,000 or more, in the aggregate, in an election to a person or entity required to report donations under these requirements to inform that person or entity of the identity of the original sources of funds being transferred, the amounts of the persons' original funds being transferred, and the identity of any persons who previously transferred the original funds.

Amends GS 163-278.39 by adding the following requirement to those that must be met in order for any sponsor to sponsor an advertisement in the print media or on radio or television that constitutes an expenditure, independent expenditure, electioneering communication, or contribution that is required to be disclosed. Requires that an advertisement made by a sponsor other than a candidate, political party organization, an individual solely spending the individual's own personal funds received through wages, investment income, or bequests or a person solely spending money received through ordinary commercial transactions include the legend or include the specified statement naming the top three donors who helped pay for the message.

XI.

Amends GS 163-278.6 (applicable to Article 22A, Regulating Contributions and Expenditures in Political Campaigns) by defining the term digital communication as any communication, for a fee, placed or promoted on a public-facing website, web application, or digital application, including a social network, advertising network, or search engine. Amends the definition of electioneering communication to include a digital communication that meets all of the already specified criteria. Also amends the definition of advertisement in GS 163-278.38Z (applicable to Part 1A, Disclosure Requirements for Media Advertisements), to include messaging through digital communication that constitutes a contribution or expenditure.

Amends GS 163-278.39 by making the statute’s requirements for political advertisements applicable to the sponsorship of an advertisement through digital communication. Establishes size and content requirements for digital communication advertisements. Makes conforming changes.

Amends GS 163-278.39C to make the statute’s disclosure requirements applicable to the sponsor of an advertisement though digital communication.

Enacts new GS 163-278.39D requiring that digital communication covered by GS 163-278.39(a) (setting out the requirements to be met for any sponsor to sponsor an advertisement in the print media or on radio or television that constitutes an expenditure, independent expenditure, electioneering communication, or contribution required to be disclosed) to submit that digital communication to the State Board of Elections along with the disclosure information required under G.S. 163-278.39. That information is to be on the State Board of Elections website and is deemed public record. Sets out information that must be included on the website.

Effective September 1, 2023.

Part XII.

Amends GS 163-278.39 by adding that a foreign national expending funds for political advertising that addresses a specific issue to influence State or local government policy, a State or local government officer, or an election must include a statement in the advertisement (1) that identifies the foreign national and (2) disclosing that the foreign national sponsored the advertising.

Part XIII.

Enacts GS 163-278.12B requiring a political committee that makes only independent expenditures to notify the Board of Elections of any: (1) contribution in excess of $1,000 received by the committee before an election but after the period covered by the last report due before that election and (2) any contribution or donation in excess of $1,000 made by the committee before an election but after the period covered by the last report due before that election. Sets out required timing of the notifications. Requires a person who receives such contribution or donation and transfers more than $1,000 of the funds to another person to disclose specified information on the contribution to that person when the transfer is made.

Part XIV.

Recodifies GS 163-278.69 as GS 163-278.158.

Enacts new Article 22I of GS Chapter 163 providing as follows, effective when the act becomes law, with distributions from the Fund beginning in the 2022 election year. States the purpose of Article 22J. Establishes the North Carolina Public Campaign Fund (Fund) as an alternative source of campaign financing for candidates who demonstrate public support and voluntarily accept strict fundraising and spending limits. Provides that the Article is available to candidates for justice of the Supreme Court and judges of the Court of Appeals in elections held in 2024 and thereafter. The Fund is to finance the election campaigns of certified candidates for office and to pay administrative and enforcement costs of the State Board of Elections (Board). 

The following are sources of money in the Fund: (1) designations made by taxpayers to the Public Campaign Fund, (2) Fund revenues distributed for an election that remain unspent or uncommitted at the time the recipient is no longer a certified candidate in the election, (3) money ordered returned to the Fund, (4) voluntary donations made directly to the Fund, and (5) money collected from the $60 surcharge on attorney membership fees (this provision is effective January 1, 2024, and applies to membership fees due for 202).

Requires individuals choosing to receive campaign funds from the Fund to file a declaration of intent to participate as a candidate for a stated office. Sets out requirements for the timing of the filing and for an affirmation that only one political committee will handle all contributions, expenditures, and obligations for the candidate and that the candidate will comply with the contribution and expenditure limits and other requirements. Requires participating candidates seeking certification to receive campaign funds from the Fund to first obtain qualifying contributions from at least 425 registered voters for Supreme Court candidates, or 400 registered voters for Court of Appeals candidates, in a sum not to exceed the specified amount of maximum qualifying contributions. Sets out the procedure under which the Board will certify candidates as meeting the necessary requirements. 

Sets out the following restrictions on contributions and expenditures with respect to participating and certified candidates. (1) Beginning January 1 of the year before the election and before the filing of a declaration of intent, a candidate for office may accept in contributions up to $25,000 from sources and in amounts permitted by Article 22A and may expend up to $25,000 for any campaign purpose. Candidates exceeding these limits will be ineligible to file a declaration of intent or receive funds from the Fund. (2) From the filing of a declaration of intent through the end of the qualifying period, a candidate may accept only qualifying contributions, contributions under $10 from North Carolina voters, and personal and  family contributions. The total contributions the candidate may accept during this period must not exceed the defined maximum qualifying contributions for that candidate. In addition to these contributions, the candidate may expend during this period only the remaining money raised under (1). With named exceptions, multiple contributions from the same contributor to the same  candidate must not exceed $500. (3) After the qualifying period and through the date of the general election, the candidate must expend only the funds the candidate received from the Fund pursuant to GS 163-278.155(b)(4) (funds distributed in a contested general election in specified amounts for Supreme Court and Court of Appeals candidates) plus any funds remaining from the qualifying period. (4) During the qualifying period, the candidate may contribute up to $1,000 of that candidate's own money to the campaign. Allows accepting contributions of $1,000 from each member of that candidate's family (spouse, parent, child, brother, and sister). Allows treating up to $500 of a contribution from the candidate's family member as a qualifying contribution if it meets specified requirements. (5) Requires a candidate and the candidate's committee to limit the use of all revenues permitted by this subsection to expenditures for campaign-related purposes only. (6) Any contribution received by a participating or certified candidate that falls outside what is permitted must be returned to the donor as soon as practicable. Contributions intentionally made, solicited, or accepted in violation of this Article are subject to civil penalties. (7) Requires a candidate to return to the Fund any amount distributed for an election that is unspent and uncommitted at the date of the election, or at the time the individual ceases to be a certified candidate, whichever occurs first. Allows a decision to participate in the Fund to be revoked by the specified deadline.

Allows candidates in elections under GS 163-358 (appears to intend GS 163-357, as enacted, filling vacancies in office created after primary filing period opens) to participate in the Fund and sets out requirements for such candidates.

Requires distributions from the Fund to be made within five business days after a certified candidate's name is approved to appear on the ballot in a contested general election, but no earlier than five business days after the primary. Sets out the amounts to be distributed from the fund in contested general elections. 

Sets out candidate reporting requirements. 

Violations of the Article can result in a civil penalty of up to $10,000 per violation or three times the amount of any financial transaction involved in the violation, whichever is greater. Also, for good cause shown, may require candidates to return distributed amounts to the Fund.

Amends GS 84-34 by requiring active members of the North Carolina State Bar to pay a $60 surcharge for the Fund, with the option for the member to designate that the surcharge required be used in its entirety for the Judicial Voter Guide described in GS 163-278.158, as recodified. Effective January 1, 2024, and applies to membership fees due for 2024.

Enacts GS 105-159.3, directing the Department of Revenue to allocate $3 from the income taxes paid each year by each individual with an income tax liability of at least that amount to the Fund, subject to each taxpayer's individual approval. Provides for notice and opportunity for the taxpayer to elect this allocation, as well as instructions for individual income tax returns. Provides for requirements for the Department under the new statute, including consultation with the State Board and parameters regarding software packages used to prepare income tax returns. Effective for taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 2024. 

Makes conforming changes to GS 163-278.5, GS 163-278.23, GS 163-278.99E, and SL 2013-381, Section 38.1(a).

Makes conforming repeals of SL 2013-360 Section 21.1(i), (j), and (l); and SL 2013-381, Section 38.1(l), (m), and (o).

Part XV.

Amends GS 13-1 by amending the triggers to the automatic restoration of the rights of citizenship to a person convicted of a crime, to now include: (1) the release from active punishment to a period of post-release supervision or parole of a person whose sentence was not suspended by the court (was, unconditional discharge of an inmate, probationer, or of a parolee by the State agency having jurisdiction over that person or of a defendant under a supervised sentence by the court); and (2) upon the suspension of an active sentence resulting in the imposition of an intermediate or community punishment. Makes conforming and clarifying changes to GS 13-2. Amends GS 163-82.14 concerning the State Board of Elections’ program to update the official lists of eligible voters, to require the State Board to report to the county board of elections specified information on an individual whose rights have been forfeited and not yet restored. Also requires the Executive Director of the State Board of Elections to notify the appropriate county board of elections of any conviction for which citizen rights have been forfeited and not yet restored. Provides that when a county receives one of these notices and the person’s name is removed from the voting records, if the person objects to the removal, then the notice the county board received is prima facie evidence for the preliminary hearing, not only that the person was convicted of a felony, but also that the registrant’s citizenship rights have not been restored.

Part XVI.

Makes it unlawful to try to evade the reporting and disclosure requirements of Parts X through XIII of the act by structuring, or attempting to structure, any solicitation, contribution, donation, expenditure, disbursement, or other transaction, punishable by at least the amount contributed or undisclosed, but not to exceed double the amount contributed or undisclosed.

Part XVII.

Includes a severability clause.

Part XVIII.

Provides that the act is effective on the date the act becomes law, unless otherwise provided.

Intro. by Marcus, Mohammed, Salvador.CONST, GS 13, GS 18C, GS 105, GS 120, GS 120C, GS 143, GS 163
S 307 (2023-2024) GSC NC UNIFORM ELECTRONIC WILLS ACT. Filed Mar 14 2023, AN ACT TO ENACT THE NORTH CAROLINA UNIFORM ELECTRONIC WILLS ACT, AS RECOMMENDED BY THE GENERAL STATUTES COMMISSION.

Enacts Article 11 to GS Chapter 31, named the “North Carolina Electronic Uniform Electronic Wills Act (Act).”  Establishes that an electronic will is a valid will in the State subject to State laws and principles of equity applicable to wills.  Makes conforming change to GS 31-3.2 (kinds of wills) to list electronic wills. Requires an electronic will to be recorded in electronic form and readable as text at the time of signing, be signed by the testator, and be attested to by at least two competent witnesses. Specifies rules for revoking an electronic will. Sets out requirements under which an electronic will may be self-proved. Permits certified paper copies of an electronic will by a sworn certification attached to the will or by attaching the affidavits of self-proof at the time of the execution of the will. Specifies that the certified paper copy of an electronic will, but not the electronic will itself, may be probated. Amends GS 28A-2A-8 (pertaining to probate of wills) to establish a procedure for probate of an electronic will. Makes conforming changes to refer to certified paper copies of an electronic will in GS 28A-2B-1 (pertaining to establishment before death the validity of a will or codicil), GS 28A-2B-3 (pertaining to the contents of a petition for will validity), and GS 31-11 (pertaining to depositories in offices of the clerk of superior court). Makes other conforming and technical changes to those statutes. Makes conforming changes to GS 31-3.1.

Requires that uniformity amongst the states must be given consideration in applying and construing the Act. Sets forth the following definitions: electronic, electronic will, record, sign, and state.  Requires the Revisor of Statutes to print as annotations to the statute all relevant portions of the official comments to the Uniform Electronic Wills Act and all explanatory comments of the drafters of this act as the Revisor may deem appropriate.

Effective January 1, 2025, and applies to electronic wills executed on or after that date.

Intro. by Galey, Daniel, Sawrey.GS 28A, GS 31
S 312 (2023-2024) CHANGES TO LIENS AND FORECLOSURES BY HOAS. Filed Mar 14 2023, AN ACT TO REQUIRE THAT NOTICE OF CLAIMS OF LIEN BE SERVED ON AN OWNER BY UNITED STATES POSTAL SERVICE CERTIFIED MAIL AND TO ELIMINATE ASSOCIATIONS' ABILITY TO FORECLOSE ON PROPERTIES FOR UNPAID ASSESSMENTS.

Amends GS 47C-3-116 and GS 47F-3-116, which each set forth requirements and procedures for the enforcement of liens for sums due to a homeowners' association under the NC Condominium Act and the NC Planned Community Act, respectively. Adds a new requirement for a claim of lien to sufficiently inform the owner that a lien is being placed on the property. Now requires the claim to be sent to the owner by certified mail. Eliminates the requirement for attempt of service pursuant to GS 1A-1, Rule 4. Makes conforming deletions to subsection (c). Eliminates the provision exempting the association from mailing a claim to an address known to be vacant or a unit with no US postal address. Repeals the entirety of subsection (f), which authorizes associations to foreclose a claim of lien through the executive board in a manner similar to a mortgage or deed of trust on real estate under a power of sale pursuant to GS Chapter 45, Article 2A, when an assessment remains unpaid for 90 days or more. Makes conforming deletions in subsections (c), (g), and (i). Repeals subsection (h), which (1) requires a claim of lien securing a debt consisting solely of fines imposed by the association interest on unpaid fines, or attorneys' fees incurred by the association solely associated with fines imposed by the association, to be enforced by judicial foreclosure only and (2) prohibits an association from levying, charging, or attempting to collect a service, collection, consulting, or administration fee from any owner unless the fee is expressly allowed in the declaration, and requiring any claim of lien securing a debt consisting solely of these fees to be enforced by judicial foreclosure only. 

Intro. by Smith.GS 47C, GS 47F
S 314 (2023-2024) INSUFFICIENT FUND TAX PAYMENT FEE MOD. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO CREATE A THIRTY-FIVE DOLLAR PENALTY FOR A TAX PAYMENT THAT IS RETURNED FOR INSUFFICIENT FUNDS OR NONEXISTENCE OF AN ACCOUNT.

Amends GS 105-357 to set the penalty for presenting payment of taxes by a check or funds transfer that is returned or not completed due to insufficient funds or nonexistence of an account of the drawer or transferor at $35, replacing the existing penalty amount that is the greater of $25 or 10% of the amount of the check or invoice and capped at $1,000. Applies to checks or electronic funds transfers presented for payment of taxes on or after July 1, 2023.

Intro. by Mayfield, Daniel.GS 105
S 315 (2023-2024) RETAIN ADULT DAY VOC. REHAB. PROGRAMS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO RETAIN ADULT DAY VOCATIONAL PROGRAMS AND COMMUNITY REHABILITATION PROGRAMS.

Identical to H 323, filed 3/9/23.

Contains whereas clauses.

Prohibits the Department of Health and Human Services from enacting policy that reduces or eliminates services provided at Adult Day Vocational Programs (ADVP) or Community Rehabilitation Programs (CRP) without following procedures related to stakeholder notification and input and appropriately funding an array of services reflecting choice. Instructs the Department of Health and Human Services not to reduce admission to the ADVP or CRP until current services are reviewed and new services are statutory or regulatory approved. Encourages the State’s congressional delegation to review US Department of Education rules for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act for negative impacts on State citizens.

Intro. by Burgin, Corbin, Woodard.UNCODIFIED
S 316 (2023-2024) REGULATE EV CHARGING STATIONS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO REGULATE ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS.

Adds to GS 20-4.01 to define electric vehicle charging station to mean a public or private parking space that is served by charging equipment that has as its primary purpose the transfer of electric energy to a battery or other energy storage device in an electric vehicle.

Enacts GS 20-162.4 to prohibit parking a vehicle in an electric vehicle charging station located on public or private property if the vehicle is not connected to the charging equipment, punishable as an infraction and fine of $100. Details signage required of a space designated as an electric vehicle charging station. Permits municipalities to, by ordinance, prohibit additional conduct and provide higher penalties regarding parking in a space designated as an electric vehicle charging station. Requires enforcement by the State, county, city, and other municipal authorities in their respective jurisdictions in the same manner as other parking laws and ordinances are enforced.

Enacts GS 143-139.5 prohibiting electric vehicle charging stations that use parking spaces in parking lots or parking garages from displacing handicapped accessible parking spaces or spaces reserved for veterans.

Applies to offenses committed on or after December 1, 2023.

Intro. by Mayfield, Lazzara, Jarvis.GS 20, GS 143
S 317 (2023-2024) ADDRESSING THE WORKFORCE HOUSING CRISIS. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO ESTABLISH WORKFORCE HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS TO ADDRESS CRITICAL HOUSING SHORTAGES FOR FIREFIGHTERS, LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS, TEACHERS, NURSES, FIRST RESPONDERS, AND OTHER VITAL WORKERS AND FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS.

Amends GS 160D-102 (the definitions provision pertaining to the local planning and development regulation) to enact definitions for workforce housing development and workforce housing improved lot. Enacts new GS 160D-802.1 allowing for a development that meets certain criteria for a workforce housing development to be permitted in any zoning district and in any territorial area of a local government and made subject only to the land development regulations set forth in this statute. Sets forth four criteria for workforce housing development: (1) the development is at least 10 acres; (2) no fewer than 20% of the lots in the development will be improved with dwelling units as defined by the North Carolina Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellings and conveyed as workforce housing improved lots (Lots) (specifies restrictions for buildings constructed on the remaining lots in the development); (3) at least 50% of the Lots in the development will be conveyed to owner-occupants that qualify for lender  financing based upon an income amount that does not exceed 80% of the most recently published area median income (AMI), as provided by the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development [the remaining Lots may be conveyed to owner-occupants that qualify for lender financing based upon an income amount that does not exceed 100% of the most recently published AMI (the area where the majority of the development is situated shall be used]; (4) workforce housing improved lots will be conveyed to owner-occupants who move into the lot no more than 60 days after the conveyance and maintain the dwelling as the principal residence for at least a majority of a calendar year after moving into the dwelling. Specifies that the owner-occupant has to have either of the following: (i) A greater than 50% ownership interest in the lot, or (ii) beneficiary of a trust where the primary purpose of the trust is for estate planning and where the settlors of the trust have placed the lot into the trust. Requires that the lot will be used solely for single family residential purposes.  Defines family to mean the person who owns the lot and (1) any persons living together with the owner that are related by blood, adoption, or marriage or (2) no more than three other persons who are not related to the owner. Clarifies that single family residential use does not include fractional ownership or timeshares.

Prevents local governments from imposing any type of vegetation requirements, including the removal, preservation, or use of trees and shrubs, in any area of the workforce housing development beyond the vegetative buffer described in this subsection. Permits the local government to require that workforce housing developments contain a vegetative buffer zone not exceeding 20 feet in width, including existing trees and shrubs, along the perimeter of the development and any adjoining properties.  Specifies permit application process for local governments. Restricts local governments from requiring connections to a public utility unless certain exceptions are established.  Prevents local governments from (1) implementing or enforcing an ordinance or regulation that is more restrictive than, or that exceeds requirements necessary to comply with, federal or State law; and (2) imposing impact fees or water or wastewater system development fees on workforce housing improved lots.

Permits local governments to restrict certificates of occupancy and certifications from the builder to ensure compliance with the act.

In addition to any other judicial remedy, allows for persons aggrieved by a failure of a local government to comply with the act to apply for an order in superior court compelling compliance with the local government, with priority given on the court calendar for the petition and any appeal. Allows for the imposition of attorneys’ fees.  

Clarifies that the act does not prevent a local government from enforcing (1) Article 11 or Article 12 of GS Chapter 160D; 2 (2) with the exception of GS 160D-921, any local development regulation described in Part 2 of Article 9 of GS 160D, so long as the local government does not exceed the requirements of State or federal law; (3) with the exception of dedications under GS 136-66.10 (pertaining to rights of way under local ordinances) or GS 136-66.11 (pertaining to transfer of severable development rights) any regulations providing for the dedication of rights-of-way or easements for street or utility purposes or road or utility construction performance standards; or (4) GS 160D-804.1 (pertaining to performance guarantees for subdivisions).

Specifies that the act should not be deemed to establish, alter, or expand a local government's authority to enact or enforce owner-occupancy development standards, rent control, or other standards related to affordable housing.

Amends GS 160D-702 to prevent a local government from implementing or enforce a zoning regulation for a development that qualifies as a workforce housing development, including without limitation, development standards regulating lot widths, setbacks, density, or building design elements, except as authorized by GS 160D-802.1. 

Effective October 1, 2023. 

Intro. by P. Newton, Moffitt, Lowe.GS 160D
S 318 (2023-2024) NATIVE PLANTS ACT. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO REQUIRE THE USE OF PLANTS AND SEEDS NATIVE TO THE SOUTHEASTERN UNITED STATES, WITH A STRONG PREFERENCE FOR PLANTS NATIVE TO NORTH CAROLINA, IN STATE PARKS AND ON STATE HIGHWAYS.

Includes whereas clauses.

Amends GS 143-341 to require the Department of Administration, in consultation with university system and community college horticulture programs and the North Carolina Forestry Association, to use seeds and plants classified as native to the State on all land owned or leased by the State or a State agency. Exempts (1) nonnative seeds and plants used in landscaping for locations where the primary purpose is crop cultivation, crop and horticulture research, science, botanical gardens, plantings for wildlife by the Wildlife Resources Commission, and zoos and (2) nonnative turf grass.

Amends GS 136-18 to require the Department of Transportation, in consultation with university system and community college horticulture programs and the North Carolina Forestry Association, to use seeds and plants classified as native to the State in highway rights-of-way. Makes an exception for nonnative grasses and seeds for soil and slope stabilization. Makes conforming deletions.

Amends GS 136-41.3 to require cities and towns to use (was, to strongly prefer) seeds and plants classified as native to North Carolina when the use of Powell Bill funds includes landscaping.

Amends GS 143B-135.56 to require the NC Parks and Recreation Authority to require projects awarded matching funds from the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund for local park and recreation purposes, to use seeds and plants classified as native to the State. Exempts (1) nonnative seeds and plants used in landscaping for locations where the primary purpose is crop cultivation, crop and horticulture research, science, botanical gardens, and zoos and (2) nonnative turf grass.

Intro. by Rabon.GS 136, GS 143, GS 143B

The Daily Bulletin: 2023-03-15

LOCAL/HOUSE BILLS
H 397 (2023-2024) TOWN OF LAKE LURE/PROPERTY LEASE. Filed Mar 15 2023, AN ACT TO ALLOW THE TOWN OF LAKE LURE TO LEASE CERTAIN PROPERTIES FOR A TERM OF MORE THAN TEN YEARS WITHOUT TREATING IT AS A SALE.

Allows Lake Lure to lease the specified property for a term of more than 10 years without following any procedures other than those under GS 160A-272 (concerning limitations on the lease or rental of any property owned by a city) for leases of 10 years or less.

Intro. by Johnson.UNCODIFIED, Rutherford

The Daily Bulletin: 2023-03-15

ACTIONS ON BILLS

Actions on Bills: 2023-03-15

PUBLIC BILLS

H 2: 2022 BUDGET TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS. (NEW)

    Senate: Passed 2nd Reading
    Senate: Passed 3rd Reading
    Senate: Special Message Sent To House
    House: Special Message Received For Concurrence in S Com Sub
    House: Ref To Com On Appropriations

H 11: SCHOOLS FOR THE DEAF AND BLIND.

    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

H 67: ENCOURAGE HEALTHY NC FOOD IN SCHOOLS.

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 76: ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE OPTIONS.

    Senate: Passed 3rd Reading
    Senate: Special Message Sent To House
    House: Special Message Received For Concurrence in S Com Sub
    House: Ruled Material
    House: Cal Pursuant 36(b)
    House: Placed On Cal For 03/22/2023

H 130: ENERGY CHOICE/SOLAR DECOMMISSIONING RQMTS. (NEW)

    House: Amend Adopted A1
    House: Amend Failed A2
    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading
    House: Ordered Engrossed
    House: Amend Adopted A1
    House: Amend Failed A2
    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading
    House: Ordered Engrossed

H 150: SCHOOL CONTRACTED HEALTH SERVICES.

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 175: CONFIRM ED WILSON/SPECIAL SUPERIOR CT JUDGE.

    Senate: Reptd Fav

H 186: JUV JUST MODS/DOI EXPENSES/TECH CHANGES. (NEW)

    House: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    House: Re-ref Com On State Government
    House: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    House: Re-ref Com On State Government

H 194: STATE BAR AUTHORITY FOR CERTAIN FEES.-AB

    House: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    House: Re-ref Com On Finance

H 207: MANDATORY TRAINING CONTRIBUTING TO CEUS.

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 250: DEATH BY DISTRIBUTION/GOOD SAMARITAN/AUTOPSY. (NEW)

    House: Reptd Fav
    House: Re-ref Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
    House: Reptd Fav
    House: Re-ref Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 258: NOVEL OPIOID CONTROL ACT OF 2023.

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 278: THE RAKIM SHACKLEFORD EMBALMING FLUID ACT.

    House: Reptd Fav
    House: Re-ref Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 341: TS FRED UNEXPENDED FUNDS/WILDFIRES.

    House: Reptd Fav
    House: Re-ref Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 360: STI FUNDING/BICYCLE/PEDESTRIAN IMPROV.

    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 361: REQUIRE REPORT/PROTECTION & ADVOCACY AGENCY.

    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref to the Com on Health, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 362: FIX OUR DEMOCRACY.

    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 363: THE GABE TORRES ACT.

    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref to the Com on State Personnel, if favorable, Pensions and Retirement, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 364: 2023 UNC SELF-LIQUIDATING CAPITAL PROJECTS.

    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref to the Com on Education - Universities, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House
    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref to the Com on Education - Universities, if favorable, Finance, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 365: REQUIRE THAT JURORS BE US CITIZENS.

    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref to the Com on Judiciary 1, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 366: RESTORE MASTER'S PAY FOR TEACHERS & ISP.

    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 367: MEDICAL DEBT DE-WEAPONIZATION ACT.

    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 369: RESTORE MASTER'S PAY FOR TEACHERS & ISP.

    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 377: GRADE "A" DAIRY ASSESSMENT ACT.

    House: Filed

H 378: FIREFIGHTERS CRIMINAL HISTORY RECORD CHECKS.

    House: Filed

H 379: FAIR USE OF CONSUMER REPORTS.

    House: Filed

H 380: PROVIDE SUPPORT TO JAIL INSPECTORS.

    House: Filed

H 381: FUNDS FOR LOCAL AIRPORT PROJECTS.

    House: Filed

H 382: REGISTERED NURSES IN SCHOOLS.

    House: Filed

H 383: FUNDS/MATTAMUSKEET LODGE.

    House: Filed

H 384: CITIES/USE OF PERPETUAL CARE TRUST FUNDS.

    House: Filed

H 385: REGULATION OF BATTERY-CHARGED SECURITY FENCES.

    House: Filed

H 386: INCREASE PERMISSIBLE INTERSTATE SPEED LIMIT.

    House: Filed

H 387: MEDAL OF VALOR AWARD FOR FIRST RESPONDERS. (NEW)

    House: Filed
    House: Filed

H 388: CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTION/EXPENDITURE THRESHOLDS. (NEW)

    House: Filed
    House: Filed

H 389: NCGA/SAFE WORKPLACE POLICY.

    House: Filed

H 390: FSU CARRYFORWARD CERTAIN FUNDS.

    House: Filed

H 391: CIVIC YOUTH GROUP ACCESS.

    House: Filed

H 392: REFLEXOLOGIST RIGHT TO WORK ACT.

    House: Filed

H 393: APPLIANCE LEMON LAW.

    House: Filed

H 394: AUTHORIZE FEDERAL NOTARIES.

    House: Filed

H 395: COUNTIES/SEMIANNUAL ASSESSMENTS.

    House: Filed

H 396: REPEAL PARTICIPATION IN ERIC.

    House: Filed

H 398: CHILD CARE ACT.

    House: Filed

S 22: RENAME OUTDOOR HERITAGE ADVISORY COUNCIL.

    House: Withdrawn From Com
    House: Re-ref to the Com on Wildlife Resources, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

S 41: GUARANTEE 2ND AMEND FREEDOM AND PROTECTIONS. (NEW)

    House: Reptd Fav
    House: Cal Pursuant Rule 36(b)
    House: Added to Calendar
    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading
    House: Ordered Enrolled

S 54: CONFIRM KATHERINE BOSKEN, COMM. OF BANKS.

    Senate: Reptd Fav

S 58: PROTECT CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE.

    Senate: Regular Message Sent To House
    House: Regular Message Received From Senate

S 90: SEARCHES OF STUDENT'S PERSON.

    Senate: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    Senate: Com Substitute Adopted
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Judiciary

S 100: AUTHORIZE HAW RIVER STATE TRAIL.

    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 135: REGISTERED VET. TECH. MODIFICATION.

    Senate: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    Senate: Com Substitute Adopted
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 157: LIMITED PROVISIONAL LICENSE MODIFICATION.

    Senate: Reptd Fav

S 174: REV. LAWS TECH., CLARIFYING, & ADMIN. CHNGS.

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Withdrawn From Cal
    House: Placed On Cal For 03/22/2023

S 187: TEACHER LICENSURE CHANGES (NEW).

    Senate: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    Senate: Com Substitute Adopted
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    Senate: Com Substitute Adopted
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 189: FENTANYL DRUG OFFENSES AND RELATED CHANGES. (NEW)

    Senate: Regular Message Sent To House
    House: Regular Message Received From Senate

S 193: CAREER DEVELOPMENT PLANS.

    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 195: UNC OMNIBUS.

    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 206: CONTROL SUB./OPIOID/VACCINE/AT HOME OMNIBUS. (NEW)

    Senate: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    Senate: Com Substitute Adopted
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Judiciary
    Senate: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    Senate: Com Substitute Adopted
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Judiciary
    Senate: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    Senate: Com Substitute Adopted
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Judiciary

S 239: REDUCE BARRIERS TO STATE EMPLOYMENT.

    Senate: Reptd Fav Com Substitute
    Senate: Com Substitute Adopted
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 268: PAY FUNERAL DIR. FOR TRANSPORTING DEAD BODIES.

    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to Health Care. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 269: EXEMPT CERTAIN DOD CHILD CARE CTRS/LIC. REQS.

    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 274: SENIOR CARE OPTIONS. (NEW)

    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to Health Care. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to Health Care. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to Health Care. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 288: INCREASE RATES/SET FLOOR/CHILD CARE SUBSIDY.

    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 291: QRIS/STAR RATING SYSTEM REFORM.

    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Re-ref Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 300: TRANSPORTATION RESILIENCY FUND MODS./DISASTER.

    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 302: GREEN SCHOOLS SAVE MONEY.

    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 305: REQUIRE REPORT/PROTECTION & ADVOCACY AGENCY.

    Senate: Passed 1st Reading
    Senate: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 306: FIX OUR DEMOCRACY.

    Senate: Passed 1st Reading
    Senate: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 307: GSC NC UNIFORM ELECTRONIC WILLS ACT.

    Senate: Passed 1st Reading
    Senate: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 308: GUARDIANSHIP RIGHTS/MODIFY FIREARMS RETRIEVAL. (NEW)

    Senate: Passed 1st Reading
    Senate: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Passed 1st Reading
    Senate: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 309: 2023 UNC SELF-LIQUIDATING CAPITAL PROJECTS.

    Senate: Passed 1st Reading
    Senate: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to Finance. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 310: SOLVING THE PRECEPTOR CRISIS.

    Senate: Passed 1st Reading
    Senate: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 311: NATIONAL INST. OF MINORITY ECO. DEV. FUNDING.

    Senate: Passed 1st Reading
    Senate: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate
    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to Appropriations/Base Budget. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 312: CHANGES TO LIENS AND FORECLOSURES BY HOAS.

    Senate: Passed 1st Reading
    Senate: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 313: SAFEGUARD FAIR ELECTIONS ACT.

    Senate: Passed 1st Reading
    Senate: Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate

S 314: INSUFFICIENT FUND TAX PAYMENT FEE MOD.

    Senate: Filed

S 315: RETAIN ADULT DAY VOC. REHAB. PROGRAMS.

    Senate: Filed

S 316: REGULATE EV CHARGING STATIONS.

    Senate: Filed

S 317: ADDRESSING THE WORKFORCE HOUSING CRISIS.

    Senate: Filed

S 318: NATIVE PLANTS ACT.

    Senate: Filed

Actions on Bills: 2023-03-15

LOCAL BILLS

H 69: WARREN COUNTY OCCUPANCY TAX.

    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 70: SCHOOL CALENDAR FLEXIBILITY/HALIFAX.

    House: Reptd Fav
    House: Cal Pursuant Rule 36(b)
    House: Added to Calendar
    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 78: TOWN OF OAK ISLAND/PARKING PROCEEDS. (NEW)

    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 80: ST. JAMES OCCUPANCY TAX AUTHORIZATION.

    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 88: OMNIBUS LOCAL ELECTIONS. (NEW)

    House: Concurred In S Com Sub
    House: Ordered Enrolled

H 133: GRAHAM COUNTY OCCUPANCY TAX.

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Withdrawn From Cal
    House: Placed On Cal For 03/22/2023

H 163: SCHOOL CALENDAR FLEXIBILITY. (NEW)

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 176: SCHOOL CALENDAR FLEXIBILITY. (NEW)

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 184: MAGGIE VALLEY DEV. AUTH. (NEW)

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Withdrawn From Cal
    House: Placed On Cal For 03/22/2023
    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Withdrawn From Cal
    House: Placed On Cal For 03/22/2023

H 195: SCHOOL CALENDAR FLEXIBILITY/ROANOKE RAPIDS.

    House: Reptd Fav
    House: Cal Pursuant Rule 36(b)
    House: Added to Calendar
    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 213: INDIAN TRAIL/STALLINGS OCCUPANCY TAX AUTH.

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Withdrawn From Cal
    House: Placed On Cal For 03/22/2023

H 220: LANSING/JEFFERSON/STOKES OCC. TAX AUTH. (NEW)

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Withdrawn From Cal
    House: Placed On Cal For 03/22/2023

H 221: SCHOOL CAL FLEXIBILITY/YADKIN &AMP DAVIE CO.

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 227: EVEN-YEAR ELECTIONS/TOWN OF VANCEBORO.

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 229: STAGGER/EXTEND TERMS OF TOWN OFFICERS/HALIFAX.

    House: Reptd Fav
    House: Cal Pursuant Rule 36(b)
    House: Added to Calendar
    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 236: SCHOOL CALENDAR ALIGNMENT/CARTERET. (NEW)

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 247: AVERY TOWNS/DEED RECORD./DELINQUENT TAXES. (NEW)

    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading
    House: Passed 2nd Reading
    House: Passed 3rd Reading

H 368: BEACH TOWNS/LAND-BASED SHARK FISHING.

    House: Passed 1st Reading
    House: Ref to the Com on Local Government, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House

H 397: TOWN OF LAKE LURE/PROPERTY LEASE.

    House: Filed

S 9: LOCAL OMNIBUS CHANGES. (NEW)

    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Reptd Fav

S 126: CITY OF ASHEVILLE/PARKING METER PROCEEDS.

    Senate: Reptd Fav

S 179: EXTEND SUNSET/BUNCOMBE/CC PROJECT/SPENCER MTN. (NEW)

    Senate: Reptd Fav
    Senate: Reptd Fav

S 276: UNION COUNTY/USE WHEEL LOCKS.

    Senate: Withdrawn From Com
    Senate: Re-ref to State and Local Government. If fav, re-ref to Rules and Operations of the Senate

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