NC H768

Amends G.S. 150B-19 to prohibit state agencies from adopting rules that impose more restrictive standards or limitations than applicable federal law or rules on the same subject matter.

Establishes an exception allowing more restrictive state rules only when responding to: (a) serious and unforeseen threats to public health, safety, or welfare; (b) express legislative or congressional mandate; (c) changes in federal or state budgetary policy; (d) federal regulations; or (e) court orders.

Declares the General Assembly's intent that agency standards and limitations shall be no more restrictive than the most nearly applicable federal standards and limitations.

Effective upon enactment and applies to all rules adopted by agencies on or after the effective date.