NC S854

Establishes an urban search and rescue program administered by the Division of Emergency Management within the Department of Public Safety, utilizing contracts with local government response teams.

Requires the Secretary of Public Safety to adopt rules for the program covering training and equipment standards, dispatch guidelines, cost reimbursement procedures, bidding processes, and compliance audits.

Creates the Urban Search and Rescue Team Advisory Committee with representatives from state emergency management, fire marshals, highway patrol, national guard, and rescue and emergency management associations to advise on program development.

Authorizes the Secretary to contract with local government units and provide equipment loans, personnel cost reimbursement, training expenses, and equipment replacement, but prohibits standby time reimbursement.

Appropriates $100,000 in recurring funds for fiscal year 2014-2015 to support the program.