Bill > H547

This bill creates new provisions limiting the legal liability of nongovernmental contractors working with public agencies in services for minors. Specifically, the bill defines nongovernmental contractors as corporations, organizations, or individuals licensed to operate facilities serving children, and public agencies as the Department of Health and Human Services and local agencies administering public assistance. Under the new law, these contractors can be held liable for their own negligence but cannot be held responsible for negligence by the public agency or its employees. The contractors and agencies will each bear their own legal defense costs, and any tort claims against the nongovernmental contractor will be subject to monetary limits equivalent to those for public agencies. However, if a contractor commits actions that qualify as child abuse, they will not receive the liability protections outlined in the bill. The legislation will become effective on October 1, 2025, and will apply to claims and contracts from that date forward, providing a clear framework for legal responsibility in child service contracts.

Government Affairs, Health and Social Services, Justice

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H547