NC S378

Establishes the "Propane Assessment Act" allowing the North Carolina Propane Education & Research Foundation to conduct referendums among propane dealers and distributors on whether to impose a voluntary assessment on propane sold in the state.

Assessment cap of $0.002 per gallon of propane sold by distributors to dealers, becomes effective only if approved by more than 50% of eligible dealer votes and more than 50% of eligible distributor votes.

Distributors collect assessments from dealers and remit quarterly payments to the Foundation by the 25th day of the month following each quarter.

Foundation must use assessment funds for industry promotion including education, training, safety, equipment replacement for low-income customers, marketing, and energy-efficient appliance rebates, with no more than 10% used for administrative expenses and no funds for lobbying.

Dealers may request refunds within 30 days after the month assessment was paid; assessment can be terminated through petition-initiated referendums requiring 10% of dealers or 50% of distributors requesting one.