NC H4

Authorizes state and local government agencies to procure and operate unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) with approval from the State Chief Information Officer (CIO), rather than imposing an outright prohibition until December 31, 2015.

Requires the State CIO to report all UAS approval or disapproval decisions to the Joint Legislative Oversight Committee on Information Technology and the Fiscal Research Division.

Permits state and local agencies receiving CIO approval to operate UAS prior to implementation of the required knowledge test, though they must comply with the test once implemented.

Changes terminology from "license" to "permit" for commercial UAS operators and lowers the minimum age requirement for commercial operators from 18 to 17 years old.

Exempts persons currently authorized by the FAA for commercial UAS operation from state violations if they apply for a state permit within 60 days of the permitting process implementation.