NC S251

Protects social security numbers collected for concealed handgun permits by limiting access to only the last four digits in statewide law enforcement systems, effective January 1, 2018.

Requires sheriffs to maintain confidential lists of permit holders and application information that are not public records under North Carolina law.

Allows full social security numbers to be visible only to the State Bureau of Investigation, while clerks of court and other law enforcement agencies can access only the last four digits.

Mandates the State Bureau of Investigation redact full nine-digit social security numbers from all records not in compliance with this law by December 31, 2017.

Requires law enforcement agencies receiving permit holder information to maintain its confidentiality and only use it for official purposes.