NC H698

Authorizes criminal history checks for current volunteers and paid fire department and emergency medical services personnel, in addition to applicants, effective January 1, 2015.

Expands who can request criminal checks to include fire chiefs of any bona fide fire department with at least a Class 9S insurance rating (previously limited to paid city fire chiefs).

Establishes statewide urban search and rescue program administered by Division of Emergency Management, with contract response teams available for 24-hour dispatch, effective July 1, 2014.

Creates Urban Search and Rescue Team Advisory Committee with representatives from state emergency management agencies, fire associations, highway patrol, and national guard to advise on program establishment and need for additional teams.

Requires Department of Public Safety to study implementation costs and cost apportionment between state and local entities, reporting findings by January 15, 2015.