NC H749

Extends board member appointment terms from two years to four years for terms expiring on or after June 30, 2011, and limits members to a maximum of 12 consecutive years of service.

Requires the State Ports Authority to primarily foster and stimulate private industry rather than actively compete with private industry in carrying out its purposes.

Mandates publication of contract requests and bids (excluding actual bids received) on the Authority's website within 48 hours and requires Council of State approval for service contracts deviating more than 20% from published tariff rates.

Subjects the Authority to standard state procurement rules and requires reporting of real property transactions to the Joint Legislative Commission on Governmental Operations, with enhanced board notification of construction contract exemptions.

Directs the Legislative Research Commission to study the cost and feasibility of relocating Progress Energy power lines across the Cape Fear River to allow ocean-going vessel passage, with study costs paid by the State Ports Authority.