A bill to protect race tracks from NIMBY-led nuisance complaints is set to become law in North Carolina. The North Carolina General Assembly last week passed HB926, which protects race tracks from nuisance claims, specifically in cases where the motorsports facility had legally established development rights and received all necessary permits and approvals to begin construction and operations. Governor Josh Stein announced that he will allow the bill to become law without his signature.

SEMA and PRI, throughout this process, worked closely with Rep. Allen Chesser, chair of the House Standing Committee on Regulatory Reform, meeting to express industry support, outlining strategies to get the bill across the finish line and highlighting the impact it will have on tracks across the state.

Background

Race tracks deserve strong champions to advocate on their behalf. Too many across the country face direct challenges that threaten their survival. These facilities are more than just tracks. They sustain jobs, generate local economic activity and embody a vital piece of our motorsports heritage, not just in North Carolina, but nationwide. When a track closes, communities lose real jobs, real livelihoods and beloved traditions. HB926 ensures race tracks can operate without the constant threat of closure or restricted use.

This new law sparks a broader conversation around the protection of race tracks. Iowa recently enacted a similar law, reflecting growing recognition that race tracks deserve the same commonsense protections that have long been afforded to farms and other longstanding community institutions.

Take Action: Protecting race tracks is among the top legislative priorities for SEMA and PRI entering 2026. In order to advance similar protections in additional states across the country, we'll need a strong ground game and a diverse coalition of business leaders and enthusiasts.

Consider hosting your local lawmakers at your race track and show them firsthand the vital role these facilities play in your community. Use the opportunity to educate them on how race tracks support jobs, drive local economic activity and tourism, and preserve cherished community traditions. Every visit helps lawmakers understand why protecting motorsports is essential--no matter the state.

For more information, contact Tierra Hubbard, SEMA senior manager for state government affairs, at tierrah@sema.org. 

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