A BILL TO BE ENTITLED
AN ACT TO DIRECT the LEGISLATIVE research commission to study the state's policy on beach preservation, restoration, and public access and the role of citizen and advisory input into these Policies and programs.
The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:
SECTION 1.  The Legislative Research Commission is directed to study the issues related to the State's policy and programs for beach preservation, restoration, and public access and the role of citizen and advisory input into these policies and programs.
SECTION 2.  As a part of its study, the Commission shall study the following:
(1)	The creation of a Beach Preservation, Restoration, and Public Access Advisory Council to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.
(2)	The relationship between the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Coastal Resources Commission and a possible advisory council.
(3)	The creation of a North Carolina Beach Preservation, Restoration, and Public Access Fund to provide grants to local communities for beach preservation, beach restoration, and beach public access.
(4)	The need for and details of a multiyear comprehensive State beach preservation and management plan and strategy to preserve, restore and manage the beaches of North Carolina.
(5)	The role of public citizens and area residents in the planning and implementation of State and local efforts for beach preservation, restoration, and public access.
SECTION 3.  The Commission may make a report of its findings and any recommended legislation to the 2004 Regular Session of the 2003 General Assembly and shall make a final report to the 2005 Regular Session of the 2005 General Assembly.
SECTION 4.  This act is effective when it becomes law.