Amends GS 96-14.3, concerning unemployment benefits. Establishes that the duration for which an individual is allowed to receive unemployment benefits depends on the average of the modified MSA unemployment rates (currently, depends on the seasonal adjusted statewide unemployment rate), as calculated in new subsection (c), that apply to the six-month base period in which the claim is filed. Details the number of weeks allowed based on the average of the modified MSA unemployment rates applicable to the base period, ranging from 16 weeks when the base period is less than or equal to 7.5% of the modified MSA unemployment rate, and up to 20 weeks when the base period is greater than 9% of the modified MSA unemployment rate.

New subsection (c) establishes that the modified unemployment rate equals the mean of the MSA unemployment rates modified by adding one standard deviation. Provides that the standard deviation equals the mean of the difference between each of the MSA unemployment rates and the mean of all MSA unemployment rates. Defines MSA unemployment rates to mean the seasonally adjusted, unemployment rate estimates for the metropolitan areas in the State as released by the US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, prior to the beginning of the base period. 

Makes conforming changes.

Enacts GS 96-9.9 to require the Secretary of the Department of Commerce to notify the State Treasurer of the quarterly collections, on each of March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1, of the surtax imposed by GS 96-9.7 upon an employer who is required to make a contribution to the Unemployment Insurance Fund (Fund). Directs an amount equal to 10% of the quarterly collections be appropriated from the General Fund to the Unemployment Insurance Fund. Directs the State Treasurer to transfer the appropriate amount to the Fund.

Effective July 1, 2017, and applies to claims for benefits filed on or after that date and tax calculations on or after that date.