NC H545

Prohibits exploration, development, and production of oil and natural gas in North Carolina's estuarine and ocean waters, including waters extending offshore to the limits of State jurisdiction.

Prohibits construction and operation of offshore fossil fuel facilities in State coastal waters, with definitions covering drill ships, platforms, pipelines, and associated equipment.

Establishes strict liability for responsible parties for cleanup costs and damages from oil and gas discharges into coastal fishing waters, with exceptions for acts of war, natural disasters, and authorized permitted discharges.

Cites concerns including the 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill (170 million gallons released), potential impacts to military operations, commercial/recreational fishing ($2 billion annually), and tourism ($3.4 billion annually).

Effective upon enactment with severability clause allowing remaining provisions to stand if any section is declared unconstitutional.