Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the State Legislation topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Burke County adopts resolutions opposing state bills on EMS certification and zoning preemption
Summary
The Board adopted two resolutions opposing provisions of House Bill 675 that would require national EMS certification for volunteers and to House Bill 765 that would limit local planning and zoning authority.
Burke County commissioners on Monday adopted two resolutions registering formal opposition to separate bills circulating in the North Carolina General Assembly.
Resolution 2025-18, introduced by Commissioner Burns, opposes selected provisions of House Bill 675 that would require all emergency services personnel, including volunteer emergency medical responders affiliated with local fire departments, to obtain National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) certification beginning Jan. 1, 2026. The resolution cites concerns about burdens on volunteer first responders, rural EMS coverage and public safety, and requests the legislature consider exemptions or alternative pathways for rural providers.
Commissioner Burns said the board wanted to act now because provisions could reappear in other bills or the budget. The motion carried 5–0.
The board also adopted Resolution 2025-19, introduced by Commissioner Bluntz, opposing House Bill 765’s proposed changes that would preempt local planning and zoning authority in ways the county finds objectionable. Planning Director Alan Glines told commissioners staff reviewed the bill and recommended taking a formal position; no public speakers addressed those agenda items. The motion passed 5–0.
Both resolutions were framed by county staff as precautionary measures while the legislature considers multiple land-use and certification proposals. Commissioners said a record opposing the measures would help county advocacy and coordination with municipal partners.
