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Last Action

Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House2025-04-10

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill directs the North Carolina Collaboratory at UNC-Chapel Hill to study how microplastics (tiny plastic particles) harm North Carolina's waterways and to develop strategies to address the problem. The bill provides $150,000 in funding and requires a comprehensive report to the General Assembly by July 1, 2026.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue that microplastics are a serious environmental and public health threat that accumulates in food chains, harms aquatic ecosystems, contaminates drinking water and seafood, and poses risks to humans and wildlife.
• •They contend this study will establish a scientific foundation for understanding the scope of the problem in North Carolina waters and develop evidence-based solutions, similar to efforts already underway in other states.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may argue that $150,000 is insufficient to conduct a truly comprehensive study, that the state should focus resources on existing pollution problems with clearer solutions, or that the one-year timeline for completion is unrealistic for meaningful scientific research.
• •Some may also question whether a state-level study duplicates federal research efforts or diverts attention from more immediate water quality concerns.