Rep. Pierce files bill in North Carolina House expanding Raeford water project funds

A new bill filed by State Rep. Garland E. Pierce in the North Carolina House seeks to broaden the use of allocated funds for water and wastewater infrastructure projects in the City of Raeford, according to the North Carolina State House.

The bill, filed as HB 260 on March 3 during the 2025 regular session, was formally listed with the short title: ‘Reallocate Raeford Sewer Infrastructure Funds.’

The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.

In essence, this bill modifies the allocation of funds initially designated for the City of Raeford, allowing $3 million to be used not only for the extension of sewer lines to the Cameron Heights community but also for any other water or wastewater project. This change expands the scope of approved projects that can utilize the allocated funds, giving the city more flexibility in addressing water and wastewater infrastructure needs. The act becomes effective when it becomes law.

Pierce proposed another three bills during the 2025 regular session.

Bills in North Carolina follow a multi-step process before becoming law. A lawmaker starts by filing a bill, which is assigned to a committee for review. The bill must be read three times in each chamber. If one chamber changes the bill after the other passes it, both must agree on the final version. Once both chambers approve the same bill, it goes to the governor, who has 10 days (or 30 if the legislature is not in session) to sign, veto, or let it become law without a signature.

You can read more about the bills and other measures here.

Pierce graduated from Fayetteville State University with a BS.

Pierce, a Democrat, was elected to the North Carolina State House in 2005 to represent the state’s 48th House district, replacing previous state representative Donald Bonner.