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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Re-ref Com On Appropriations/Base Budget2026-05-05

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill establishes a Military Sexual Trauma Study Commission to research sexual assault and harassment in North Carolina's military populations and creates a two-year pilot program providing support services including a 24/7 hotline, counseling, legal referral, and peer support to active duty service members, National Guard members, veterans, and military families. The bill appropriates $3 million total to implement both initiatives.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue that military sexual trauma is a serious problem that undermines military readiness and service member well-being, and that North Carolina has a responsibility to support its military-connected populations who may struggle to navigate federal and civilian support systems.
• •They contend that a state-level pilot program with peer support and navigation services fills gaps in existing care, particularly for geographically dispersed National Guard and reserve component members, while a study commission will provide evidence to guide future statewide implementation.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may argue that military sexual trauma support and investigation are primarily federal responsibilities under the Department of Defense, raising questions about whether state-level duplication is necessary or efficient.
• •Some may also express concern about the $3 million recurring budget appropriation and whether state resources would be better spent on other priorities, or question whether a two-year pilot program provides sufficient time to gather meaningful data before deciding on permanent expansion.