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In a historic move, the North Carolina state legislature has passed a new immigration bill that will provide a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants residing in the state. The bill, which was signed into law by Governor Lisa Jackson on June 1, 2026, has been hailed as a major step towards comprehensive immigration reform in North Carolina.The new legislation, known as the North Carolina Immigration Reform Act, will allow undocumented immigrants who have been living in the state for at least five years to apply for legal residency. In order to qualify, applicants must pass a background check, pay a fine, and demonstrate proficiency in English and knowledge of American civics. Once approved, they will be granted a temporary visa and will be eligible to apply for permanent residency after three years.Governor Jackson, who has been a vocal advocate for immigrant rights, praised the passage of the bill as a long-overdue measure to provide relief to the thousands of undocumented immigrants who contribute to North Carolina's economy and communities. "This is a historic day for our state and a clear demonstration of our commitment to inclusivity and compassion," she said in a statement.The new law has been met with mixed reactions from state residents and lawmakers. Supporters of the bill argue that it will strengthen the state's economy by providing a pathway for undocumented immigrants to fully participate in the workforce and pay taxes. Critics, however, have raised concerns about the potential strain on public resources and the impact on job opportunities for native-born North Carolinians.In addition to providing a pathway to citizenship, the North Carolina Immigration Reform Act also includes provisions for increased funding for English language education and citizenship classes, as well as measures to address human trafficking and protect immigrant communities from exploitation.The passage of the immigration bill in North Carolina comes at a time of heightened national debate over immigration policy, with Congress deadlocked on comprehensive reform. The state's bold move is expected to serve as a model for other states grappling with the challenges of immigration and provide a glimmer of hope for undocumented immigrants seeking a path to legal status in the United States.