NC S864

Appropriates $510,250 in recurring General Fund money to the Department of Commerce for fiscal year 2022-2023 to establish five new positions at the National Institute of Innovation and Technology, Inc.

Creates four regional outreach coordinator positions and one regional outreach and engagement manager position to address talent shortages in nanotechnology, semiconductors, biomanufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and clean energy industries.

Requires recruitment efforts targeting veterans, secondary school students for pre-apprenticeships and youth pathways, members of the Armed Forces, returning citizens, and underserved populations; positions must include staff with veteran or related education and industry experience.

Mandates annual reporting by September 1 to legislative committees on program activities, accomplishments, expenditures, and fund sources, including lists of competitive grants awarded using State matching funds.

Requires submission of annual audited financial statements to legislative committees within 30 days of issuance and becomes effective July 1, 2022.