Bill > H655

This bill aims to prohibit the use of American Indian mascots in North Carolina public schools through a multi-step process involving the State Advisory Council on Indian Education and the State Board of Education. The bill requires the Council to annually report on and define American Indian mascots, and to create a list of public schools using such mascots. The State Board of Education must then review this report and vote on whether to concur with the Council's findings. If the Board agrees a school is using an American Indian mascot, it will notify the school's governing body and superintendent, directing them to change the mascot within two years. For public school districts, the superintendent has one year to initiate the mascot change process, and if no action is taken, they can choose a new mascot. Charter schools must also change their mascots within two years of receiving notice. Penalties for non-compliance include withholding state funds from the superintendent's salary or withholding per-pupil equivalent funds for charter schools. The bill becomes effective immediately but will apply starting with the 2025-2026 school year, giving schools ample time to implement the changes.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H655