Bill > H891

This bill establishes the Government Agency Forum Selection Act and imposes new restrictions on litigation by the Attorney General. The bill creates a state policy that prioritizes North Carolina's state courts for civil actions involving the state or local political subdivisions, requiring such actions to be filed in state court when possible and prohibiting removal to federal court when the state is a defendant. The bill includes several exceptions to these rules, such as lawsuits against specific government entities like law enforcement, district attorneys, and incarcerated individuals. Additionally, the bill modifies the Attorney General's litigation powers by mandating that they cannot advance arguments that would invalidate state statutes and requiring legislative approval before entering into class action lawsuits. If the General Assembly is not in regular session, the Attorney General must seek joint approval from the Speaker of the House and the Senate President Pro Tempore. The bill also includes a severability clause, which means that if any part of the act is found invalid by a court, the remaining provisions can still be enforced. The act becomes effective immediately upon becoming law.

Government Affairs, Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H891