AN ACT requiring state agencies to accept electronic Signatures, notarization, and seals with respect to any bonding requirement or bond issuance.

The General Assembly of North Carolina enacts:

SECTION 1.(a)  Article 11A of Chapter 66 of the General Statutes is amended by adding a new section to read:

§ 66‑58.13.  Use of electronic signature, notarization, and seals with respect to bonding.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, all State agencies shall, with respect to any bonding requirement or bond issuance, accept all of the following:

(1)        Electronic signatures that comply with the requirements of G.S. 66‑58.5(a)(2).

(2)        Electronic notary seals that comply with Article 2 of Chapter 10B of the General Statutes.

(3)        A digital seal that accompanies an electronic signature or notarization.

SECTION 1.(b)  Notwithstanding G.S. 150B‑21.1A(a), a public agency may adopt an emergency rule in accordance with G.S. 150B‑21.1A to ensure the authenticity of any electronic signature, notarization, or seal authorized by this act if the adoption of a rule would otherwise be required under Article 2A of Chapter 150B of the General Statutes.

SECTION 2.  This act becomes effective October 1, 2021, and applies to any bonding requirement imposed or bond issuance authorized on or after that date.