Bill > H271

This bill requires referendums in four municipalities within Cabarrus County (Concord, Harrisburg, Midland, and Mount Pleasant) to determine whether their local elections should change from nonpartisan to partisan. If approved by voters in the November 3, 2025 municipal election, these towns would transition to partisan elections starting in 2027, which means candidates would officially disclose their political party affiliation on the ballot. The bill also modifies the election process for these municipalities, specifying that town officers will be elected on a partisan basis as provided in North Carolina General Statute 163-291, and clarifies that these changes will not affect any vacancies for seats elected prior to the effective date. Additionally, the bill adds Cabarrus County to a list of counties with specific provisions for filling vacancies, which becomes effective immediately upon becoming law. The Cabarrus County Board of Elections will certify the referendum results, and if a majority of voters approve the change, the partisan election method will be implemented at the first regular meeting of each town's council in December 2027.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H271