NC S129

Booking photographs (mugshots) would become confidential records and no longer classified as public records under North Carolina law, prohibiting law enforcement agencies from publishing, distributing, or releasing them

Public law enforcement agencies may release a booking photograph only when it relates to a missing person investigation

Courts may order the release of a booking photograph if the requester demonstrates the disclosure is actually necessary for immediate law enforcement needs

Defines "booking photograph" as an image taken by an arresting law enforcement agency for identification purposes or when an individual is processed into jail

Effective date: October 1, 2025