AN ACT to appropriate funds to purchase athletic training equipment and upgrade facilities.

Whereas, Rutherford County School is dedicated to supporting the educational and extracurricular needs of all of its students; and

Whereas, athletics play an important role in the development of young people, providing opportunities for physical activity, teamwork, and leadership; and

Whereas, the high schools in Rutherford County currently lack the necessary equipment and facilities to assess, rehab, and train their student‑athletes at the highest level; and

Whereas, the purchase of equipment and upgrades to athletic facilities would enable student‑athletes to train at a higher level, prevent injury, and improve their performance on the field, court, and track; and

Whereas, new equipment, including sports medicine equipment, cardio equipment, rehabilitation equipment, and sport‑specific training aids, would ultimately provide enhanced care and rehabilitation, thus creating a safer environment for student‑athletes; and

Whereas, new equipment may also require upgrades to existing facilities, construction of new facilities, as well as associated expenses such as shipping, installation of equipment, and warranties; and

Whereas, Rutherford County needs State funds to complete this important project for its high schools; Now, therefore,

The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:

SECTION 1.  There is appropriated from the General Fund to the Office of State Budget and Management the sum of one million two hundred fifty thousand dollars ($1,250,000) in nonrecurring funds for the 2023‑2024 fiscal year to provide a directed grant to Rutherford County to assist with the purchase of new athletic training equipment and upgrade of the athletic facilities at the County's high schools.

SECTION 2.  This act becomes effective July 1, 2023.