N.C. Gen. Stat. § 130A-298

A nonreverting hazardous waste fund is established within the Department which shall be available to defray the cost to the State for monitoring and care of hazardous waste disposal facilities after the termination of the period during which the facility operator is required by applicable State and federal statutes, rules or regulations to remain responsible for post-closure monitoring and care. The establishment of this fund shall in no way be construed to relieve or reduce the liability of facility operators or any persons for damages caused by the facility. The fund shall be maintained by fees collected pursuant to the provisions of G.S. 130A-294(a)(6).