NC S543

Requires state agencies to establish internal audit programs that promote effective internal controls, ensure compliance with laws and regulations, and review the effectiveness of operations and service delivery.

Mandates each agency head ensure their internal audit unit meets minimum key performance indicators and criteria established by the Council of Internal Auditing, which must comply with Professional Practice of Internal Auditing standards.

Directs the Council of Internal Auditing to hire an Executive Director and two Administrative Specialists, both exempt from North Carolina Human Resources Act provisions and serving at the Council's will.

Appropriates $351,857 in recurring funds for the 2021-2023 fiscal biennium, including $203,875 for the Executive Director position and $147,982 for administrative specialists.

Requires the Council to report findings on state agencies' compliance with minimum key performance indicators to the Joint Legislative Commission on Governmental Operations by October 1, 2022, and annually thereafter.