From insurance to vaping, key North Carolina laws now in effect

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Starting Tuesday, July 1st, several new laws are in effect for North Carolina.  

First, there is an increase in the minimum auto liability insurance limits. The minimum limits for bodily injury will change to $50,000 per person, $100,000 for injuries per accident, and $50,000 for property damage.  

There is also a new tax on rideshares and taxis. For solo rides, there is a 1.5% tax and a 1% tax on shared rides.  

House Bill 973 changed the laws relating to human trafficking in vacation rentals. All staff involved in vacation rentals must go through training every two years. There will be a $500 fine for the first violation, $1,000 for the second offense, and $2,000 for every offense after that.  

The ‘Workforce Freedom and Protection Act’ prohibits any agreements trying to restrict employer’s right to work for another employer based on period of time, geographic area, or engaging in certain work activities. The ban on noncompete only applies to employees making less than $75,000 a year. 

There are also stricter guidelines for vape products per house bill 900. The products sold must be FDA approved or pending approval.  

Owner of Vape Hut in Wilmington, Bridgette Norris says the bill includes a list of products vape shops can sell.