Three State Constitutional Amendments on the 2026 Ballot

NC Voters to Decide on Three Constitutional Amendments in November Election

North Carolina voters will have more to consider than candidates when they head to the polls for the November 3, 2026, general election. Three proposed amendments to the North Carolina Constitution will also appear on the ballot, giving residents an opportunity to weigh in on issues involving taxes and voting requirements.

Unlike traditional legislation, constitutional amendments establish rules that cannot be changed by lawmakers alone. Each proposal must receive voter approval before becoming part of the state's Constitution.

Here's a breakdown of what voters should know.

1. Lowering the State Income Tax Cap

The first proposed amendment would lower the maximum state income tax rate permitted under the North Carolina Constitution from 7% to 3.5%.

The change would not automatically set the state's income tax rate at 3.5%. Instead, it would limit how high lawmakers could raise the rate in the future without another constitutional amendment.

2. Limiting Local Property Tax Increases

The second amendment would require the North Carolina General Assembly to establish limits on increases in property-tax levies imposed by local governments.

While the proposal would create a constitutional requirement for limits, it does not specify how those limits would be calculated or what exceptions might apply. Those details would be determined through future legislation.

The proposal raises important questions about local government funding and how communities pay for services such as schools, public safety and infrastructure.

3. Expanding Photo ID Requirements for Voting

The third amendment would expand North Carolina's constitutional photo identification requirement to cover all methods of voting, rather than only in-person voting.

Current state law already requires voters casting absentee ballots by mail to provide photo identification or follow an established exception process.

If approved, the amendment would place the broader identification requirement directly into the state Constitution.

Why These Amendments Matter

Constitutional amendments can have lasting implications for how North Carolina governs, collects revenue and administers elections.

Supporters and opponents may disagree about the potential benefits and consequences of each proposal, making it important for residents to understand both the immediate changes and their possible long-term effects.

In-person early voting period: Starts: Thursday, Oct. 15. Ends: 3 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31. ; Election Day: Tuesday, Nov. 3. Residents can find official election information, voter registration details and ballot resources through the North Carolina State Board of Elections at www.ncsbe.gov.

An informed vote is an empowered vote, and the decisions North Carolinians make this November could help shape the state's future for generations to come.