North Carolina’s motorsports heritage just scored a major win. Governor Josh Stein has allowed House Bill 926 to become law, safeguarding the state’s racetracks from nuisance complaints and ensuring the future of grassroots racing.
The legislation includes the “Protect the Right to Race” provision, championed by Rep. Allen Chesser, which shields motorsports facilities from frivolous lawsuits filed by residents or developers who move in after tracks have already been legally established, permitted, and operating.
“Few places in the U.S. capture the spirit of motorsports like North Carolina, and Gov. Josh Stein has cemented his legacy as a champion of racing by allowing HB 926 to become law,” said Michael Good, president of Performance Racing Industry (PRI). “Too often our motorsports community finds itself playing defense against opportunistic residents and developers. This law ensures that racetracks can continue to thrive and deliver the excitement and benefits they bring to their communities.”
SEMA and PRI applauded Chesser for standing with racers, fans, and local track owners.
Motorsports in the U.S. carries a $69 billion annual economic impact, and in North Carolina alone, racing drives $3.82 billion in output, supports nearly 20,000 jobs, pays over $1.35 billion in wages, and contributes more than $477 million in taxes.
Local tracks are often family-owned businesses that provide affordable entertainment while fueling the next generation of racers and sparking innovations that ripple through the performance aftermarket. With HB 926, North Carolina has made it clear: racing is here to stay.