House committee substitute to the 1st edition makes the following changes.

Removes the previous edition’s amendments to GS 131E-157 and GS 143-508 preventing the NC Medical Care Commission (Commission) and the NC Office of Emergency Medical Services (Office) from adopting or enforcing any rule prohibiting EMS personnel from carrying concealed or openly any pepper spray and the provision requiring the adoption of related rules.

Enacts new subsection (c) to GS 131E-158, directing the Commission and Office to adopt rules to permit EMS personnel to carry, concealed or openly, any pepper spray. Specifies the rules may require training that may not exceed NC Basic Law Enforcement Training standards in the use of pepper spray, and approval from the affiliated EMS provider under its policies prior to carrying pepper spray. Effective July 1, 2025.