NC H284

Authorizes law enforcement agencies to destroy unclaimed firearms, firearms confiscated after conviction, and firearms purchased through or voluntarily surrendered to firearm buy-back programs.

Requires sheriffs and law enforcement agency heads to maintain records of all firearm destructions.

Establishes requirements for firearm buy-back programs including checking serial numbers against local, state, and federal stolen firearms records and obtaining written permission from lawful owners before destruction.

Mandates law enforcement to make written determinations of whether purchased or surrendered firearms were used in crimes and retain ballistic evidence (fired bullets and cartridge cases) for non-crime firearms.

Becomes effective July 1, 2023, and applies to firearms received by law enforcement on or after that date.