Bill > H718

This bill introduces comprehensive revisions to North Carolina's bail bondsmen regulations, focusing on several key areas. The bill establishes a new statement of purpose for bail bondsmen regulation and clarifies that any conflicting common law is abrogated. It introduces the concept of a "provisional licensee," extending the initial supervision period from 12 to 24 months and implementing more stringent requirements for supervising bail bondsmen, including a $200 application fee, five years of uninterrupted experience, and limitations on supervising no more than two provisional licensees at a time. The bill adds new grounds for administrative action against licensees, including violations resulting in injury or death and use of unnecessary force. It changes continuing education and license renewal deadlines to May 15th, requires licensees to have a physical business address in North Carolina that is separate from a residence, and mandates that bondsmen comply with motor vehicle financial responsibility requirements. The bill also restricts out-of-state bail bondsmen from directly arresting defendants in North Carolina, requiring them to work with local licensed bondsmen. These changes aim to enhance professional standards, supervision, and accountability in the bail bondsman industry, with the provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025, for new and renewed licenses.

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https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H718