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

Part II.

Makes organizational changes to GS 14-415.10 (definitions provisions). Removes conforming changes to GS 17C-6 and GS 14-269.

Part IV.

Clarifies that the motion that a sheriff or licensed qualified arms dealer must file under GS 50B-3.1 upon learning that a background check provides grounds precluding a defendant from owning or possessing a firearm should request that the court determine whether the defendant is precluded from owning or possessing a firearm.

Part V.

Enacts new GS 14-409.44, authorizing a federal firearms licensee to enter into a safety hold agreement with a firearm owner. Defines federal firearms licensee as a person licensed as a dealer, manufacturer, or importer under 18 U.S.C. § 923, and safety hold agreement as a private agreement in which a licensee takes possession of an owner’s lawfully possessed firearm at the owner's request for an agreed-upon period of time. Provides that such agreements shall not require the payment of a fee. Grants immunity to licensees for any act or omission arising from a safety hold agreement that results in personal injury or death, except for actions resulting from the negligent or reckless storage of a firearm or otherwise unlawful conduct on the part of the licensee. Provides that licensees may sell or otherwise dispose of firearms unclaimed at the termination of an agreement. Requires the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) to develop and make available a form for such agreements. Provides that agreements are confidential and not a public record under GS Chapter 132. Clarifies that nothing in the new statute requires a licensee to take possession of an unlawfully possessed firearm or to return a firearm to a person prohibited by law from possessing it. Requires the SBI to adopt rules consistent with the act. Effective July 1, 2025.

Part VI (was, Part V).

Modifies the definition of defensive device under GS 115C-105.52 so that it no longer includes firearms, but instead includes a non-lethal device, in addition to the other weapons listed. Specifies that the act’s changes to GS 14-269, GS14-269.2, and GS 115C-105.52 are effective January 1, 2026, and apply to offenses committed on or after that date.

Part VII.

Broadens the door lock exemptions under the NC State Building Code under GS 143-143.4 so that it includes any business entity licensed to sell automatic weapons as a federal firearms dealer that is in the business of selling firearms or ammunition (currently, has to be such an entity that also operates a firing range which rents firearms and sells ammunition).