NC H998

Establishes the North Carolina Independent Living Act (Chapter 168B) to authorize services enabling individuals with disabilities to live independently in home-based and community-based settings, promoting consumer control, peer support, self-determination, and equal access.

Creates the Statewide Independent Living Council with 24 voting members appointed by the Governor (majority must have disabilities), serving 3-year terms with a maximum of two consecutive terms, plus 5 non-voting members representing relevant state agencies.

Requires the Council to develop, approve, and submit a State Plan every three years to the appropriate federal agency detailing use of federal and state funds for independent living centers and services, and to submit annual reports to the legislature with outcome data.

Appropriates $100,000 in recurring funds for fiscal year 2019-2020 and $100,000 in recurring funds for fiscal year 2020-2021 to the Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services, for implementation.

Takes effect July 1, 2019, with the Council's first meeting to be held no later than May 1, 2020, and allows the existing nonprofit council to continue until all gubernatorial appointments are made and assets are transferred.