NC H323

Requires courts to assess $600.00 as court costs against convicted defendants when local government crime laboratories perform DNA analysis, bodily fluid testing for alcohol or controlled substances, or controlled substance analysis during investigation.

Requires courts to assess an additional $600.00 in costs when local crime laboratories perform digital forensics (seizure, forensic imaging, and analysis of digital media) during investigation, if work is equivalent to North Carolina State Crime Laboratory standards.

Requires courts to assess $600.00 in costs when expert witnesses employed by local crime laboratories provide testimony about chemical analysis, forensic analysis, or digital forensics analysis at trial, in addition to any laboratory costs already assessed.

Funds collected must be remitted to the general fund of the local governmental unit or law enforcement unit operating the laboratory and used for law enforcement or laboratory purposes.

Law enforcement agencies must provide courts notice and opportunity to be heard before any court costs are waived or reduced, with notice given at least 15 days prior to hearing.

Takes effect July 1, 2019, for all costs assessed on or after that date.