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

Adds new section to the act, pertaining to certain background check requirements for firefighters, as follows. Amends GS 153A-233 (counties), GS 153A-234(b) (fire marshal), and GS 160A-292(b) (fire chiefs) to specify that these entities only have to obtain a background check of any person over age 18 (previously no minimum age requirement) who either applies for a paid or volunteer position with their respective departments (fire marshal and fire chiefs) or, in the case of GS 153A-233, is in a paid or volunteer position with a county, city, or other unit of local government, or incorporated fire department (currently, volunteer fire department) with whom the county contracts for fire-fighting or prevention services. Permits the criminal history check to be  conducted through the county clerk of court or a third-party vendor if the applicant has been a resident of the State for over five years and reports no charges or convictions on the application.  Applies to applications submitted on or after the act becomes law. Makes organizational changes.