NC S601

Establishes the position of North Carolina Surgeon General appointed by the Governor to serve as the State's chief public health advocate with a four-year term concurrent with the Governor's term.

Requires Senate confirmation of appointments beginning January 1, 2024, and allows consecutive term appointments.

Requires the Surgeon General to be a licensed physician with exceptional communication skills, recognized leadership in addressing health disparities, and demonstrated commitment to serving individuals affected by social determinants of health such as food insecurity and housing instability.

Directs the Surgeon General to report directly to the Governor and work with the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services to advise on health policy and serve as the State's public health spokesperson.

Appropriates up to $150,000 in recurring funds from the General Fund to the Office of the Governor for the 2020-2021 fiscal year to create the full-time Surgeon General position.