NC H343

Creates the Joint Legislative Study Committee on Statewide Commuter Rail consisting of 18 members (9 from the House appointed by the Speaker, 9 from the Senate appointed by the President Pro Tempore).

Committee shall develop a statewide strategic vision for commuter rail integrating freight, passenger, and commuter rail uses, incorporating recommendations from the 2021 NC FIRST Commission, the Comprehensive State Rail Plan, and regional transportation plans.

Committee must evaluate potential rail alignments, ridership impacts, emerging technologies, funding sources, public-private partnerships, legal issues, insurance requirements, tax incentives, and staffing needs within the Department of Transportation's Rail Division.

Committee shall submit an interim report to the General Assembly in 2022 and a final report with findings and legislative recommendations to the 2023 General Assembly, terminating upon filing the final report or convening of the 2023 General Assembly, whichever is earlier.

Legislative Services Commission shall provide professional staff, while Senate and House shall provide clerical staff with expenses borne by the Committee; members receive standard legislative subsistence and travel reimbursement.