Sen. Todd Johnson

Maddy summaryThis bill requires electric public utilities in North Carolina to submit detailed reports on how well they use their existing power grids. These reports must analyze current performance, explore ways to improve efficiency without building new lines, and outline plans for implementing these improvements. The state's Utilities Commission will review the reports and set specific targets for utilities to meet, while also establishing metrics to measure grid usage. Additionally, the bill mandates that the Commission decide within 240 days how these usage metrics will influence future decisions on approving utility investment costs.

Maddy summaryThis bill authorizes the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles to create a special license plate called the 'America's Semiquincentennial' plate. The plate will feature the phrase 'America 250' and other designs to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States. Any registered vehicle owner in the state will be eligible to purchase this plate starting on July 1, 2026.

Maddy summaryThis North Carolina bill directs the Department of Health and Human Services to provide new luggage, such as suitcases or backpacks, to children entering or currently in the foster care system when they are removed from a household. The legislation appropriates specific funds for this purpose and allows the department to accept additional donations, while explicitly defining new luggage as unused containers and excluding disposable bags. To ensure accountability, the bill requires an annual report detailing how often disposable bags are still used and how the new luggage inventory is managed. These changes take effect on July 1, 2026, aiming to improve the personal belongings provided to children in state care.

Maddy summaryThis bill requires North Carolina state agencies to use zero-based budgeting on a rotating eight-year schedule starting in 2026. Under this method, agencies must justify every dollar of spending from scratch by listing specific activities, their legal basis, and the costs needed to maintain minimum or current service levels, rather than simply adjusting previous budgets. The Office of State Budget and Management will provide technical assistance to agencies as they prepare these plans, which must include data on program outcomes and the potential negative impacts of discontinuing any activity. Funding of $10,000 is allocated to the budget office to support the administration of this new requirement.

Maddy summaryThis bill proposes a constitutional amendment to allow any law-abiding citizen in North Carolina to carry a legal weapon for self-defense, either openly or concealed, without needing a permit. The proposal would remove the current prohibition on concealed carry while maintaining a permit system solely for reciprocity with other states and to facilitate weapon purchases. Eligibility for this right is restricted to individuals who have not been indicted or convicted of a violent crime or a felony involving controlled substances and who have not been adjudicated mentally incompetent. The amendment would also establish that carrying is not allowed on public or private property that is legally posted against it. If approved by voters in the 2026 general election, this change would become part of the state constitution.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Hands Free NC Act, makes it illegal for drivers in North Carolina to hold a wireless communication device while operating a motor vehicle on public roads. The law prohibits texting, watching videos, or holding any electronic device, such as a cell phone or smartwatch, except when the vehicle is safely stationary or during specific emergencies like medical crises or unsafe road conditions. Drivers under 18 are allowed to use navigation systems if all destinations are entered before driving, while law enforcement, first responders, and emergency vehicle operators are exempt from these restrictions. Violations result in fines ranging from $100 to $200 depending on prior offenses within a 36-month period, and repeat offenders will face insurance points on their records. The legislation also prevents local governments from passing their own ordinances on this matter and requires driver education programs to include instructions on these new rules.

Maddy summarySB 50, "Freedom to Carry NC," allows most North Carolina residents aged 18 or older (who are U.S. citizens) to carry concealed handguns without a permit, while maintaining existing permit options for reciprocity. The bill prohibits concealed carry for individuals with certain felony convictions, domestic violence misdemeanors, active warrants, or specific mental health or substance use conditions. It also requires carrying valid ID and disclosing concealed weapons to law enforcement upon request. Additional provisions include increased penalties for assaults on first responders, new offenses for felons discharging firearms during crimes, and expanded benefits for law enforcement families. The bill does not change current restrictions on carrying firearms in sensitive locations like schools or government buildings.

Maddy summaryThis bill amends North Carolina law governing owners' associations in condominiums and planned communities. It directly affects these associations and their members by setting specific limits on late fees (capping at $20 per month or 10% of an unpaid assessment) and fines (capping at $100), prohibiting managing agents from being paid based on fines collected, and requiring fair procedures for approving unit changes. The bill also mandates prelitigation mediation for disputes between associations and members and requires the Department of Justice to collect and report on related complaints. These changes aim to standardize association practices and provide clearer dispute resolution processes.

Maddy summaryThis bill sets a $50 cap on referral fees paid to nonlicensed individuals for directing insurance business to licensed agents or brokers. It applies to most insurance referrals but excludes title insurance, with violations punishable by fines up to $2,000 per incident. The law takes effect October 1, 2025, impacting insurance agents, brokers, and nonlicensed referrers who handle client introductions. It clarifies existing insurance referral fee rules without altering broader insurance regulations.

Maddy summarySB 479, the SCRIPT Act, requires health insurers in North Carolina to allow patients to choose any participating pharmacy without restrictions. It prohibits insurers from imposing unequal copayments, financial penalties, or incentives that steer patients toward specific pharmacies. The bill directly affects insurers offering prescription drug coverage, independent pharmacies (defined as groups of 10 or fewer under common ownership), and patients seeking pharmacy services. Key provisions ensure equal treatment for all pharmacies in a plan and prevent insurers from limiting patient choice based on financial incentives.