NC H689

Establishes environmental justice as state policy requiring equitable distribution of environmental benefits and burdens, with particular attention to low-income, limited-English proficient, and communities of color populations.

Creates Environmental Justice Advisory Council (11 members, goal of 50%+ from environmental justice focus populations) and Interagency Environmental Justice Committee (9 state agency representatives) to advise on policy implementation and community engagement.

Requires eight covered state agencies (Environmental Quality, Health and Human Services, Transportation, Commerce, Public Safety, Agriculture and Consumer Services, Public Instruction, and Utilities Commission) to develop community engagement plans by July 1, 2025, and report baseline and annual spending data showing environmental benefits directed to environmental justice focus populations.

Defines environmental justice focus populations as census block groups meeting at least one of three criteria: median household income at or below 80% of state median, at least 6% persons of color or Indigenous peoples, or at least 1% households with limited English proficiency.

Appropriates $500,000 nonrecurring and $250,000 recurring funds to the Department of Environmental Quality for community outreach and three new positions including a Civil Rights Compliance Director.