NC H698

Requires law enforcement agencies to release body-worn and dashboard camera recordings upon request after 48 hours have passed from the time of recording, unless a court orders otherwise.

Allows law enforcement agencies to file court actions to restrict release of recordings for a specified period of time, with the court considering eight specific standards including protection of investigations, sensitive personal information, and fair administration of justice.

Permits expedited court petitions for authorized persons seeking recording release, requiring courts to prioritize these proceedings and conduct in-camera reviews as needed.

Maintains existing exceptions allowing law enforcement to disclose recordings to district attorneys for criminal prosecution, internal training, suspect identification, and other law enforcement purposes without public release restrictions.

Takes effect upon passage into law.