Senate committee substitute makes the following changes to the 2nd edition.

Deletes the previous provisions. Changes the act's long and short titles, and now provides the following.

Enacts a new subdivision to GS 20-79.4(b), establishing an Eastern Board of Cherokee Indians special registration plate and providing for no additional fee for the plate.

Enacts GS 115C-270.21, directing the State Board of Education (State Board) to enter into a memorandum of understanding (memorandum) with the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians specifying the criteria that must be met for individuals to teach Cherokee language and culture classes. Establishes that individuals approved to teach in accordance with a memorandum pursuant to the statute are authorized to teach Cherokee language and culture classes without a license. Details five requirements of a memorandum of understanding entered into under the statute, including (1) requirements for approval of individuals employed under the statute; (2) a three-year approval, renewable period for individuals employed under the statute; and (3) a clear statement restricting unlicensed individuals employed under the statute from providing instruction in other content areas.

Amends GS 115C-295, modifying the language of the statute to detail the minimum age and license prerequisites for all teachers employed by public schools or in schools receiving public funds (previously, referred to a certificate instead of a license). Adds new subsection providing for the employment of individuals exempt from licensure by new GS 115C-270.21.