Policy Watch

North Carolina Policies 2026

Stay ahead with our concise list key policies shaping North Carolina in 2026.

Essential insights for every resident.

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HB 58 – Various Local Elections
This bill changes rules for how certain local elections are run, including timing and administration. It can affect when people vote and how local officials are elected.

HJR 379 – Convention of the States Application
This resolution asks Congress to call a constitutional convention. Critics worry it could open the door to major changes to the U.S. Constitution without clear limits.

HB 74 – House Budget Technical Corrections
This bill makes adjustments to the state budget passed earlier. While technical, these changes can shift how money is actually spent.

HB 358 – Continuing Budget Operations Part II
This bill keeps state government funded when a full budget is delayed. It determines which programs continue operating and at what levels.

HB 232 / HB 283 – Small Business Investment Grant Program
These bills provide grants or incentives to small businesses. Supporters say it helps economic growth; opponents question oversight and fairness.

SB 257 – 2025 Appropriations Act
This is the main state budget bill. It decides funding for schools, healthcare, infrastructure, and state employees.

Where to find further details?

Visit the North Carolina government website for full policy texts and summaries.

Election & Voting / Democracy

Budget & Fiscal Policy

Education Policy

HB 87 – Educational Choice for Children Act
This bill expands school voucher programs that allow public money to be used for private or religious schools. It raises questions about public school funding.

HB 832 – Education Omnibus
This bill bundles many changes to education policy into one law. It affects curriculum, school governance, and teacher requirements.

HB 415 – Modify Math & Social Studies Graduation Requirements
This bill changes what students must complete to graduate high school. It directly affects student course requirements statewide.

HB 918 – Standardized Testing Choice Act
This bill allows alternatives to traditional standardized tests. Supporters say it reduces pressure on students; critics worry about accountability.

HB 959 – Various Education Changes
This bill includes multiple updates to school policy and administration. Its broad scope means it can affect many parts of the education system at once

Public Safety & Firearms

HB 42 – Back the Blue Pay Act
This bill increases pay or benefits for law enforcement officers. Supporters say it helps recruitment; critics question budget priorities.

HB 674 – Firearms Liberty Act
This bill limits how state agencies enforce certain federal gun laws. It raises concerns about public safety and legal conflicts.

HB 894 – Gun Dealer Door Lock Exemption
This bill changes safety requirements for gun dealers. It affects how firearms are stored and secured.

Health Care & Workforce

HB 67 – Healthcare Workforce Reforms
This bill changes licensing and practice rules for healthcare workers. It aims to address worker shortages but raises concerns about oversight.

HB 433 – Registered Nurses in Schools
This bill increases or formalizes the role of nurses in public schools. It affects student health services and school staffing costs.

HB 696 – Health Care Practitioner Transparency Act
This bill requires medical providers to clearly identify their credentials. It is meant to reduce patient confusion about who is providing care.

HB 618 – Ivermectin Access Act
This bill allows easier access to ivermectin without certain restrictions. It has sparked debate over medical safety and evidence-based care.

Regulatory Reform & Business

HB 402 / SB 290 – Limit Rules With Substantial Financial Costs
This bill requires legislative approval for costly regulations. Supporters say it protects businesses; critics say it weakens environmental and worker protections.

HB 926 – Regulatory Reform Act of 2025
This bill rolls back or limits state regulations across industries. It can affect environmental rules, labor standards, and consumer protections.

HB 92 – NC Digital Assets Investments Act
This bill allows certain state investments in digital assets like cryptocurrency. It raises questions about financial risk and oversight.

Social & Cultural Policy

HB 171 – Prohibition on DEI in State Agencies
This bill limits diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in state government. Supporters call it neutrality; critics say it reduces workplace fairness.

SB 227 – Eliminating DEI in Public Education
This bill restricts DEI programs in public schools and universities. It affects how schools address race, gender, and inclusion.

HB 192 – Defund Planned Parenthood
This bill blocks state funding from going to Planned Parenthood. It impacts access to reproductive and preventive healthcare.

Immigration & Enforcement

SB 153 – North Carolina Border Protection Act
This bill expands cooperation between state agencies and federal immigration enforcement. It affects immigrant communities and local law enforcement roles.

HB 96 / SB 71 – Expedited Removal of Unauthorized Persons
This bill strengthens enforcement measures for undocumented individuals. Critics argue it risks due-process violations.

HB 261 – Sentence Enhancement for Immigration-Related Crimes
This bill increases penalties for certain crimes if committed by undocumented immigrants. It raises concerns about equal treatment under the law.

Energy & Enviroment

HB 694 – Regional Water Study / Interbasin Transfer
This bill studies and regulates how water is moved between regions. It impacts environmental protection and regional growth planning.

HB 850 – Interbasin Transfer Moratorium / Study
This bill pauses certain water transfers while further study is conducted. It affects long-term water access and development.