North Carolina Microplastics Study Act.

HB 871, the North Carolina Microplastics Study Act, directs the North Carolina Collaboratory at UNC Chapel Hill to study the impacts of microplastics (tiny plastic particles 1 nanometer to 5 millimeters in size) in the state’s waters. The bill requires the Collaboratory to identify microplastics, research their ecological and health effects, develop standardized testing methods, and create a risk assessment framework by collaborating with state agencies like the Department of Environmental Quality. The study must produce a comprehensive report with recommendations for reducing plastic pollution, including potential policy changes, by July 2026. The $150,000 allocated funds the research, public engagement, and report development, but the bill itself does not impose new regulations or directly affect businesses or residents.