Tax Credit for Rehabilitated Corporate Campus.

HB 544 creates a 40% state tax credit for businesses that spend at least $10 million rehabilitating eligible historic corporate campuses in North Carolina. To qualify, properties must be certified historic sites (listed on the National Register and locally designated), formerly served as corporate headquarters, occupy at least 20 acres, have an 80% vacancy rate for two years, and meet preservation requirements. The credit applies to rehabilitation costs incurred on or after January 1, 2026, and is tied to federal credit eligibility. This policy directly affects businesses planning major renovations of qualifying historic corporate properties.