North Carolina Voters Will Decide Three Amendments
The November 3, 2026 ballot features proposals regarding property taxes, income tax caps, and voter ID requirements.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Elections
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North Carolina voters head to the polls on November 3, 2026, to decide on three constitutional amendments. The measures cover potential restrictions on local property taxes, a reduction in the state income-tax cap, and new requirements for voter photo identification.
Why it matters
These amendments could fundamentally alter the state constitution and grant the General Assembly broader authority over fiscal and electoral policy. Because the governor lacks veto power over these legislative proposals, the outcome of the public vote will determine if the measures proceed.
The proposed amendment would lower the constitutional income-tax maximum from 7% to 3.5%. This aligns with a planned rate reduction to 2.99% by 2033, though the 2026 tax rate currently sits at 3.99%.
The players
General Assembly
This is the primary legislative body of North Carolina that proposed the three constitutional amendments.
The details
The property tax measure would authorize the General Assembly to restrict local levies, while the voter ID amendment would mandate photo identification for all voters, including those casting ballots by mail. Current law already requires absentee voters to provide ID or complete an exception form, but this measure would solidify the requirement within the constitution.
Timeline
September 4, 2026: County boards of elections began mailing absentee ballots.
October 9, 2026: The regular voter registration deadline is at 5 p.m.
November 3, 2026: Voters will decide on the constitutional amendments.
2027: The state income-tax rate is scheduled to drop to 3.49%.
2030: The state income-tax rate is scheduled to drop to 3.24%.
Political Context
Opposition to these amendments centers on concerns that constitutionalizing tax caps and ID requirements limits future legislative flexibility and impacts voter access. Critics argue that these measures shift power away from local jurisdictions and create unnecessary hurdles for the electorate.
The approval of these measures could result in lower constitutional tax limits and standardized identification requirements for every voter in the state. Residents should note that a simple majority vote is all that is required for these changes to take effect.
The takeaway
Voters should review the specific language of the three amendments before casting their ballots to understand the long-term impact on local property taxes. Ensuring your photo ID meets the standards for both in-person and mail-in voting remains a key step for active participation.
Further reading
For more on the upcoming ballot, visit the North Carolina Elections page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Kiss 95.1.
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