Bill > H559

This bill addresses fee modifications and regulatory improvements for the North Carolina Department of Labor's Elevator and Amusement Device Bureau, which currently faces a significant inspection backlog and staffing challenges. The bill establishes new fee structures for various types of inspections and permits, including elevator, amusement ride, and ski lift inspections, with fees ranging from $50 to $1,000 depending on the type and complexity of the inspection. Starting July 1, 2025, these fees will be implemented, and from July 1, 2026, they will be automatically adjusted annually based on the Consumer Price Index, ensuring the fees remain current with economic changes. The bill also provides flexibility for the Commissioner to modify inspector qualification standards, allows fees to be carried over between fiscal years instead of reverting, and mandates that the Department develop an in-house training and apprenticeship program in collaboration with the North Carolina Community College System to address staffing shortages. These changes aim to modernize the Department's operations, eliminate the inspection backlog, attract qualified inspectors, and maintain the bureau as a fully receipt-supported operation without requiring additional taxpayer funding, ultimately improving safety oversight for elevators, amusement devices, and related equipment in North Carolina.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H559