Letter from Jones Street: They hear you on energy costs

With this session’s bill filing deadline behind us, a clearer picture is emerging of legislative priorities in North Carolina.

At the forefront is growing concern over the cost of electricity, the impact of large energy users, and the fairness of how costs are allocated. These issues have become bipartisan priorities this session, with several bills introduced by Republican sponsors signaling increasing momentum across the state.

Specifics in a moment, but one takeaway from this: Your state lawmakers do listen, and especially in an election year. That’s why we ask you to reach out, and we organize advocacy opportunities like Wednesdays on Jones Street.

We’re also doing some online training NEXT Friday, May 15, with a former journalist on how to write a great letter to the editor.
 

 
Now the latest on some of the more interesting energy bills we’re following:

Senator Jarvis has introduced SB 1046 – A.I. in Environmental Permitting, which would direct the Department of Environmental Quality and the Environmental Management Commission to jointly develop a phased-in permitting program incorporating artificial intelligence, while maintaining staff oversight. The proposal outlines a multi-phase rollout beginning with post-construction stormwater permits, followed by air permits, erosion and sedimentation control, and additional permitting programs.

Land use authority remains a point of tension between state and local governments. A 2024 law effectively blocked most local-government–initiated downzoning by requiring written consent from all affected property owners,making it harder for cities to restrict data centers and other development. This biennium, more than 50 local bills have been introduced seeking to restore that authority, though none have advanced. SB 587 – Clarify Nonconforming Uses (Lazzara, Sawrey), which passed the Senate unanimously last year and is now pending in the House, includes provisions that would partially restore local flexibility.

Water rights disputes are also taking center stage. A failed provision in SB 214 – Various Local Provisions VII, would have allowed Franklin County to condemn land in neighboring jurisdictions to secure additional water supply for growth. In response, communities are now introducing legislation to pause water transfers and interbasin transfers pending further study, citing concerns about downstream impacts.

On the budget front, negotiations between the House and Senate remain at an impasse. While the continuation budget keeps current spending levels in place, both chambers have proposed additional funding for teachers and state employees. The primary sticking point remains a proposed 0.5% income tax reduction—estimated at roughly $2 billion in foregone revenue.

Lisa Hazirjian
Legislative & Political Director | NC Chapter