Bill > H348

This bill modifies the annexation process for cities by introducing new requirements when considering annexing certain types of land, specifically agricultural, forestland, or horticultural land that has been enrolled in present-use value (PUV) taxation within the past three years. Before holding a public hearing on an annexation petition, the city must first consult with the county planning department to determine whether rezoning the area for residential use would cause the number of public school students to exceed 100% of the county's current school capacity. If the planning department finds that the proposed annexation would indeed overload school capacity, the county board of commissioners must approve the annexation before the city can proceed. If the county board does not approve, the city can only move forward by agreeing to pay the county the amount needed to address the school capacity issue. The bill applies only to counties with 150,000 or more residents and will become effective on July 1, 2025, applying to annexation petitions received on or after that date. The goal appears to be preventing potential school overcrowding by providing county commissioners with a review mechanism for annexations that might strain educational infrastructure.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H348