NC S577

Amends G.S. 58-27-5 to clarify exceptions to the prohibition on kickbacks, rebates, commissions, and other payments in title insurance transactions related to real estate settlements

Expands permitted payments to include those from ownership in a bona fide title insurance company, agency, or agent, as well as employer-to-employee payments including sales commissions

Defines "bona fide" title insurance entities as those that make underwriting decisions on title risks, issue policies/binders/endorsements, and maintain separate staff and offices

Requires written disclosure of affiliations between referring parties and title insurance companies at time of referral, consistent with federal Real Estate Settlement Procedures Act (RESPA) requirements

Effective December 1, 2025, applying to offenses committed on or after that date; violations remain a Class 2 misdemeanor with fines up to $5,000