North Carolina imposes a moratorium on certain surface water transfer certificates pending a study.

The bill imposes a moratorium on the issuance of certificates for significant new surface water transfers or increases in existing transfers. This pause allows time for a comprehensive review and evaluation of the current statutory process for approval of surface water transfers. The North Carolina Collaboratory at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will study the process, consulting with relevant entities, and report findings to the 2027 General Assembly. The study will consider environmental impacts, economic equity, and the adequacy of current requirements.

North Carolina imposes a moratorium on certain surface water transfer certificates pending a study.

The bill imposes a moratorium on the issuance of certificates for significant new surface water transfers or increases in existing transfers. This pause allows time for a comprehensive review and evaluation of the current statutory process for approval of surface water transfers. The North Carolina Collaboratory at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill will study the process, consulting with relevant entities, and report findings to the 2027 General Assembly. The study will consider environmental impacts, economic equity, and the adequacy of current requirements.