NC H537

Creates a rebuttable presumption of death when a person's disappearance and continued absence for at least 90 days coincides with a state or federally declared disaster, eliminating the previous requirement to wait seven years before presuming death.

Requires the Office of Vital Records and local register of deeds offices to process all birth and death certificate amendment requests within 30 calendar days of receiving the completed application, required proof, and payment.

Prohibits Office of Vital Records employees (permanent and temporary) from teleworking if it would adversely impact the 30-day processing deadline, unless the DHHS Secretary determines telework is necessary during a declared disaster or emergency.

Updates existing law on missing persons proceedings to allow complaints to reference disaster-related disappearances and federal findings of presumed death as part of legal filings.

Effective July 1, 2025; the presumption of death and receiver action provisions apply to complaints filed on or after that date.