North Carolina voters to decide on constitutional amendments

North Carolina voters will face several state constitutional amendments on the ballot this Election Day. One proposal seeks to cap the state income tax rate at 3.5 percent, a move that would prevent future legislatures from raising rates without a public referendum. While current laws are already scheduled to lower the rate to 3.5 percent by 2027, the amendment would codify this limit into the state constitution.

Local officials, including the Orange County Board of Commissioners, have expressed concern that such a cap could restrict the ability of local governments to fund essential services. While income taxes flow to the state's general fund, officials noted that budget restrictions resulting from state-level tax limits could force a reconsideration of funding for discretionary services such as libraries, public transit, parks, and senior services.

Another amendment proposes expanding the state’s photo identification requirement to include all forms of voting, including absentee mail-in ballots. While photo ID is already required for in-person voting, this amendment would make the requirement a constitutional mandate for all voters, making it more difficult for future legislators to alter voting procedures without a referendum. Some lawmakers have raised concerns regarding potential disenfranchisement for voters who face barriers to obtaining identification or have religious objections to being photographed.