Bill > H997

This bill requires members of the North Carolina General Assembly to certify that they have reviewed the United States Constitution and the North Carolina Constitution within the previous two years before taking their oath of office. Specifically, each legislator must inform the Principal Clerk of their respective legislative chamber whether they have read, listened to, or otherwise reviewed copies of both constitutions, creating a new accountability mechanism for elected officials. The legislation amends the existing oath of office statute (G.S. 11-7) by adding a certification requirement to the traditional oath, which already requires officials to support and defend the constitutions of the United States and North Carolina. The bill will become effective on January 1, 2027, giving lawmakers and the legislative system ample time to prepare for implementing this new certification process. This requirement aims to ensure that elected officials have a current and direct familiarity with the foundational legal documents that guide their governmental responsibilities.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H997