NC S523

Amends G.S. 15A-300.1 to allow emergency management agencies to use unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) for emergency management functions including incident command, area reconnaissance, search and rescue, damage assessment, hazard risk management, and floodplain mapping.

Permits emergency management UAS to be equipped with infrared and other imaging technology for emergency management and hazard risk management purposes.

Appropriates $2,397,000 in recurring General Fund monies for the 2017-2018 fiscal year to the Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management for the Urban Search and Rescue Program.

Appropriated funds shall support local government partnerships to purchase and maintain equipment and provide items necessary for statewide search and rescue services, with local match requirements satisfied through cash or in-kind contributions.

Amendment becomes effective immediately upon enactment; appropriation becomes effective July 1, 2017.