Summary
North Carolina has put in place a new law called House Bill 926 that protects racetracks from lawsuits over noise and other complaints from nearby residents. This law applies if the racetrack existed before the surrounding properties were built or bought. The goal is to make it difficult for those living near long-established racetracks to stop or change their events.
Key Facts
- North Carolina's House Bill 926 became law on September 30, 2025, without the governor's signature.
- This law protects racetracks from nuisance and taking lawsuits if they existed before nearby developments.
- The law defines the "area of the racing facility" as everything within three miles of the track.
- It covers the racetrack, spectator areas, garages, and related buildings within that area.
- State Representative Allen Chesser introduced the bill with backing from racing associations like the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA).
- Similar laws have been enacted in Iowa and Virginia to protect racetracks from such lawsuits.
