Eminent Domain.

HB 310 proposes a constitutional amendment to North Carolina that would require all eminent domain takings (government seizure of private property) to serve a "public use" and mandate fair compensation determined by a jury. It directly affects property owners, local governments, and utilities by restricting when property can be taken and ensuring compensation is set through a jury trial. The bill also updates existing law (G.S. 40A-3) to clarify which entities (like utilities or local governments) may exercise eminent domain for specific projects. The amendment must be approved by voters in the 2026 general election to take effect.