Bill > H892

This bill establishes a grant program at the North Carolina Department of Commerce to help residents in Western North Carolina affected by Hurricane Helene obtain a Commercial Driver's License (CDL). The program will provide $4,000 grants to qualifying CDL training providers for each trainee who successfully completes a four-week accelerated training program and receives their CDL. Additionally, the program will offer $1,500 stipends for trainees who need temporary accommodations and demonstrate financial need, with a total accommodation grant cap of $277,500. The CDL training provider must offer on-site testing and be located within 75 miles of Asheville. The Department of Commerce will create a streamlined application process and develop partnerships with local hotels, motels, employers, and construction firms to support trainees in both their training and potential employment in disaster recovery efforts. The program is funded by a one-time appropriation of $2.5 million from the General Fund for the 2025-2026 fiscal year, with priority given to residents of counties directly impacted by Hurricane Helene. The act will become effective on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H892