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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate2025-05-07

Vote Breakdown

Plain Language Summary

This bill establishes a State Infrastructure Bank Board to provide loans and financial assistance for transportation, water, sewer, and other infrastructure projects in North Carolina. The Board will manage federal, state, and private funds, offer flexible lending terms including below-market interest rates, and use blended financing to attract private investment in infrastructure.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this creates a dedicated funding mechanism to accelerate infrastructure improvements across North Carolina by leveraging both public and private capital.
• •The Board's authority to offer flexible loan terms, below-market rates, and blended financing structures allows projects that might not be commercially viable to move forward, supporting economic development, environmental resilience, and regional equity.
• •Having experienced professionals from government, banking, and local government on the Board ensures sound decision-making.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may worry about government taking on financial risk through below-market or zero-percent loans, potentially creating losses for taxpayers.
• •Some may question whether private investors should profit from infrastructure when the state subsidizes costs, or whether the Board's lending practices could unfairly advantage certain regions or projects.
• •There are also concerns about adding another layer of bureaucracy and whether the Board's authority to blend public and private funds adequately protects public interests and prevents conflicts of interest.