Amends GS 15A-1215(a)(seating alternate jurors) to do the following: (1) direct courts to ensure alternate jurors do not discuss the case with anyone until they become a juror or are discharged; (2) permit alternate jurors to become jurors at any time before a verdict is rendered; (3) require that jury deliberations begin anew when an alternate juror becomes a juror; (4) provide that no more than twelve jurors can participate in deliberations; (5) provide that alternate jurors must be discharged at the same time and in the same manner as the original jury. Effective October 1, 2021 and applies to jurors and alternate jurors selected on or after that date.