2009 North Carolina Code
Chapter 143B - Executive Organization Act of 1973.
§ 143B-361. Findings.

Part 9.  North Carolina Rail Council.

§ 143B‑361.  Findings.

The General Assembly finds that:

(1)        The rail system in North Carolina is an irreplaceable transportation resource;

(2)        The promotion and preservation of railroads operating within North Carolina as transportation resources and economic development tools is vital to the State's economy, and the continued economic viability of railroads is a necessary part of the free enterprise system;

(3)        A healthy rail system is vital to a competitive State economy, and railroads must be allowed, through effective public policy, to compete fairly in the transportation marketplace and to provide those transportation services for which rail is suitable;

(4)        The preservation of rail corridors, through branch line rehabilitation and State acquisition of strategic corridors, is in the public interest and is an integral and necessary part of a balanced transportation system; and

(5)        As the owner of the majority interest in the North Carolina Railroad Company, the State has a vested interest in the preservation, development, and well‑being of the North Carolina Railroad. (1993, c. 483, s. 1.)