NC H712

Authorizes courts to order destruction of seized firearms if the court determines it is in the best interest of public safety, in addition to existing grounds for destruction (lack of legible identification number or unsafe condition).

Allows law enforcement agencies to consign seized or unclaimed firearms to federally licensed dealers for sale at a minimum reserve price of $150, with destruction permitted if the firearm cannot be sold within six months or cannot be arranged for consignment.

Requires proceeds from firearm sales to be remitted to the appropriate county finance officer for use in maintaining free public schools.

Exempts antique firearms from destruction authority and does not apply to firearms seized under wildlife hunting violation statutes.

Becomes effective July 1, 2019, and applies to all firearms seized, found, or received by law enforcement on or after that date.