House committee substitute to the 1st edition makes the following changes.  Makes conforming changes, including to the act’s long title.

Expands the flags considered official government flags under new GS 144-7.1 to now include:

• The flag of any state or territory of the United States.
• The flag of a political subdivision of any state or territory of the United States.
• The flag of any Indian tribe or Indian group recognized by State or federal law.

Removes requirement that flying or displaying a flag of a nation recognized by the United States of America only occur during a visit by the nation’s head of state or national delegation. Removes references to the government property being owned or leased by the State or political subdivision thereof. Removes Class 3 misdemeanor penalty for second or subsequent violations of GS 144-7.1. Makes clarifying changes. Makes conforming changes to GS 144-5 (display and handling of flags) so that all official flags (currently, a flag of the United States or the State flag) under new GS 144-7.1 must be handled, displayed, stored, and disposed of properly. Requires local governments to comply with GS 144-7.1 as part of their obligations pertaining to display of official government flags under GS 144-7. Makes conforming and technical changes.

Changes the effective date to October 1, 2025 (was, when act became law).