NC H513

Submits a referendum question to North Carolina voters at the November 2022 general election asking whether to limit marine net fishing in coastal waters to protect saltwater finfish, shellfish, and other marine animals.

Prohibits the use of gill nets and other entangling nets (such as drift nets, trammell nets, and stab nets) in coastal fishing waters, with hand-thrown cast nets exempted.

Restricts all other net types to a maximum of 500 square feet of mesh area, limits vessels to two unconnected nets, and limits persons not on vessels to one net in coastal fishing waters.

Becomes effective only if a majority of voters approve the referendum, at which point the State Board of Elections certifies the amendment to the Secretary of State and Revisor of Statutes.

Absentee ballots are authorized and available 50 days before the election date, with standard election procedures applied under state law.