HB 726

Enacts GS 143B-394.45, establishing the 12-member NC Commission on Youth Mentoring and Academic Enhancement (commission) within the Department of Administration (Department). Grants the commission four powers and duties, including (1) establishing a grant program for small- to medium-sized youth nonprofit mentoring and tutoring organizations to meet three specified goals and (2) working with the Department of Public Instruction and public school districts statewide to identify at-risk students and schools. Details commission membership, all appointed by the Governor. Provides for member terms, election of a chair, commission meetings, filling of vacancies, member removal, member expenses, and commission staffing. Details requirements for grant programs, including that persons in nonadministrative roles be below 30 years old and from the same county they are assigned. Directs that grant funding come from the State Education Lottery. Requires the commission to annually report to the specified NCGA committee chairs and division on the distribution of grants. Details required content of the report. Directs the Secretary of Administration to allocate monies to fund the commission from funds available to the Department. Effective July 1, 2025.