Bill Updates

Right to Work Bill Updates (SB 1082)

North Carolina Law currently has a Right-to-Work law that states employees cannot be forced to join a labor union or pay union dues to keep a job. Supporters of this bill may argue that this bill provides permanent protection for workers, but this “new” Right to Work bill does not create a new right for these employees. Instead, it places an existing protection into North Carolina’s Constitution that makes it more difficult for future legislatures to change or repeal. Opponents argue that the proposal is unnecessary because North Carolina already has a Right to Work law in statute, and that placing it in the Constitution could make future labor policy changes more difficult.

Property Tax Updates (SB 889)

Legislators are currently considering a constitutional amendment to be placed before voters regarding property taxes. The proposal would give the General Assembly greater authority over local property tax increases and how quickly counties and municipalities can raise property tax revenue. 

Those in support of the amendment believe this measure could provide greater tax predictability for homeowners and help prevent sudden increases in property tax bills. The proposal could have implications for how counties and municipalities fund local priorities such as schools, public safety, infrastructure, and economic development. Others have expressed concerns that it could limit the flexibility of local governments to fund essential services such as public education, public safety, and infrastructure, particularly in growing or rural communities.

The legislation has passed the North Carolina Senate and is currently awaiting further consideration in the House after being referred to the House Rules Committee on May 11, 2026. I will continue to follow this proposal closely and keep our community informed as it moves through the legislative process.

Lower Taxes for All NC…? (SB 1080)

A proposal is currently being considered that would permanently lower North Carolina’s maximum income tax rate from 7% to 3.5% by placing the limit in the North Carolina Constitution. This bill is being advertised as protecting taxpayers from future tax increases and providing long-term tax certainty for families and employers. Critics have expressed concerns that lowering the constitutional tax cap could limit future lawmakers’ flexibility during economic downturns or emergencies.

If this proposal is approved, North Carolina voters will have the final say on the amendment during the November 2026 election.