NC H1185

Declares contracts or lease agreements that convey oil, gas, or mineral rights for natural gas extraction using hydraulic fracturing are void and unenforceable in North Carolina.

Defines hydraulic fracturing as the stimulation of a well using hydraulic fluids and additives under force to create artificial fractures for improving hydrocarbon production capacity.

Appropriates $25,000 to the Department of Justice to conduct or contract for a study of existing contracts that would be declared void under this act.

Takes effect October 1, 2012, and applies only to contracts or lease agreements recorded on or after that date.

Expires October 1, 2015.