What the New North Carolina Laws Mean for You
Effective December 1, 2025
Several important laws went into effect on December 1, 2025, impacting public safety, criminal procedures, schools, traffic rules, and more. At Calhoun Law, P.C., we want our community to understand how these changes may affect daily life — and your legal rights.
Here’s a clear, practical breakdown of what these laws now mean for individuals and families across North Carolina.
1. Stricter Pretrial Release Rules (Iryna’s Law)
Iryna’s Law took effect on December 1 and created tougher requirements for pretrial release in violent cases. Judges and magistrates must now:
Consider GPS monitoring
Review prior violent offenses more thoroughly
Apply more restrictive release conditions
What this now means for you:
If you or a loved one is charged with a qualifying violent offense, the bond process may look different than before. Detention is now more likely, and release may involve enhanced monitoring or additional conditions. The law also expanded requirements for mental health evaluations.
2. Increased Penalties for Fentanyl, Domestic Violence, and Child Endangerment
Through the Public Safety Act, penalties have already increased for several serious offenses, including fentanyl crimes, domestic violence, and child exposure.
What this now means for you:
These charges carry harsher sentencing exposure. Anyone accused of these offenses should seek legal counsel immediately, as the stakes are now significantly higher.
3. Changes for Private Schools (HB 193)
Private schools now have the option to authorize trained staff to carry firearms on campus.
What this now means for you:
Parents may see changes in school safety protocols. Private school employees may face new training or certification requirements depending on their institution’s policies.
4. Window Tint Rules (SB 391)
As of December 1, window tint is no longer measured during the annual vehicle inspection.
However, drivers are now required to lower their windows during traffic stops to allow visibility for law enforcement.
What this now means for you:
Tint violations remain enforceable on the road. Your car may pass inspection, but illegal tint can still result in a citation.
5. Updated SNAP Work Requirements
North Carolina implemented new SNAP work rules aligned with federal guidelines.
What this now means for you:
Some adults may have stricter work participation requirements. SNAP recipients should review updated notices carefully to ensure they remain compliant.
6. New Rules for Squatters and Non-Compete Agreements
Two additional legal changes went into effect on December 1:
Property owners now have quicker remedies when dealing with unlawful occupants
Certain non-compete agreements are now restricted or unenforceable
What this now means for you:
Landlords and homeowners may have stronger legal protections. Employees and employers should review existing contracts for compliance under the new rules.
Why Staying Informed Matters
These laws affect many areas of life — from criminal charges and detention to school safety and employment. Understanding these changes can help you protect your rights and make informed decisions.
We’re Here to Help
If you have questions about how these new laws may affect you or your family — including bond conditions, criminal charges, protective orders, custody matters, or employment concerns — the attorneys at Calhoun Law, P.C. are here to guide you.
Calhoun Law, P.C.
Office: (704) 735-7491
Protecting what matters most.
