NC H902

Allocates $10,000,000 in recurring General Fund appropriations for fiscal year 2021-2022 to the Department of Transportation for recording and storing video from highway cameras.

Classifies highway camera video recordings as non-public records that may only be disclosed according to the provisions of new statute G.S. 132-1.7B.

Permits disclosure of recordings only to individuals whose image or voice appears in the video, their personal representatives, or law enforcement agencies for criminal investigations, suspect identification, or locating missing persons.

Establishes a court order requirement for releasing recordings to the public and allows superior courts to order disclosure if the Department abuses its discretion in denying requests within three business days.

Limits Department retention of recordings to 30 days unless a court orders otherwise, prohibits use of recordings for fines or private investigation, and prevents elected officials from reviewing recordings unless they meet disclosure criteria.