Bill > H478

This bill modifies the process for filling vacancies in the office of district attorney (DA) in North Carolina. Currently, when a DA vacancy occurs, the Governor makes an appointment, but the bill introduces more specific guidelines for this process. If the vacating DA was elected as a political party nominee, the Governor must now consult the district executive committee and appoint from a list of up to three qualified persons recommended by that committee, but only if the recommendation is made within 30 days of the vacancy. The bill stipulates that only executive committee members residing in the prosecutorial district can vote on these nominees. The length of the appointee's term depends on when the unexpired term ends: if it ends on the first January following the next General Assembly election, the appointment is for a full four-year term; if it ends two years after that election, the appointment is until the election is certified, and the election will be for the unexpired term. If the vacating DA was not a party nominee or if the committee fails to make a recommendation, the Governor can directly appoint a qualified individual. The bill becomes effective immediately and applies to DA vacancies filled on or after its enactment.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H478