Synopsis: If the State or Federal Government declares a natural disaster in the State of North Carolina, a person who lives in the disaster area and fails to be found or declares themself alive within 30 days will be legally classified as deceased.

Hurricane Helene was catastrophic in western North Carolina. Thousands are still missing. There are only a few hundred identified bodies to "confirm dead," but thousands upon thousands of body bags were used. Cadaver dogs and recovery efforts are still locating remains.

It's likely that the people still missing are actually dead and buried under who knows how many feet of dirt and debris. As such, this bill's intention is to hasten the 'declaring dead' process, which will effect insurance and financial companies, and also clean up voter rolls.

To find your State Representative or Senator:

https://www.ncleg.gov/FindYourLegislators

Bill:

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/h537