North Carolina voters approve amendment requiring caps on local property tax increases

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RALEIGH, N.C. (WBTV) - North Carolina voters have approved a constitutional amendment requiring state lawmakers to place limits on local government property tax increases, according to Associated Press projections.

State election data showed that with all precincts reporting across North Carolina, 2,492,761 voters voted “for” the amendment, while 1,574,188 voted “against” it. That equates to 60.4% “for,” and 39.6% “against.”

The referendum amends the state constitution to require the General Assembly to enact caps on year-over-year property tax increases imposed by cities and counties.

The constitution previously placed no such limits on local governing bodies.

Supporters say the measure establishes necessary checks and balances on local municipalities and shields homeowners from sharp tax hikes.

Critics argue the cap would hamstring local governments, particularly smaller towns that depend on flexible tax revenue to navigate emergencies or fund community services.

Public support for this measure measured the highest among the three in an Elon University survey, with 71% in favor and 15% opposed.

Previous coverage: North Carolina voters already approved photo ID rules and 7% tax cap — why are lawmakers back for more?

Track live election results here