House committee substitute makes the following changes to 1st edition. Provides that a contract to obtain consultant services under the act is not subject to Article 3C of GS Chapter 143. Deletes provision requiring the Department of Commerce (Department) to begin work immediately to identify a qualified independent consultant with the necessary expertise and expedite entering into a contract. Allows the consultation contract to be funded from (1) funds available within the Employment Security Commission and (2) non-state or nongovernmental funds, grants, and in-kind contributions specifically designated for carrying out the analysis required by the act (was, contract may be funded from departmental funds and allowed the Department to seek and accept non-state funds, grants, and in-kind contributions).