NC H883

Creates the Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Commission in the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources to preserve, interpret, and promote Asian American and Pacific Islander history, arts, and culture in North Carolina.

Commission consists of nine members appointed by the Governor (4), General Assembly (4), and Secretary of Natural and Cultural Resources (1), with staggered terms of one to three years, and at least one member must be from the North Carolina Historical Commission.

Commission powers include advising on preservation methods, promoting public awareness through programs and exhibits, supporting heritage education in schools, building a statewide network, and cataloging Asian American and Pacific Islander history and culture.

Appropriates $250,000 in recurring funds annually for the 2023-2025 biennium to support commission operations, including positions for a director and associate director.

Effective date is July 1, 2023; commission members receive no salary but are eligible for per diem, subsistence, and travel expenses.