Sen. Lazzara files bill in North Carolina Senate to speed vital records processing

A new bill filed by State Sen. Michael A. Lazzara seeks to improve efficiency in the Office of Vital Records by setting processing time limits and limiting telework for its employees, according to the North Carolina State Senate.

The bill, filed as SB 503 on March 25 during the 2025 regular session, was formally listed with the short title: ‘A More Efficient Office of Vital Records.’

The following is our breakdown, based on the actual bill text, and may include interpretation to clarify its provisions.

In essence, this bill aims to enhance efficiency within the Office of Vital Records by mandating that all requests to amend birth or death certificates be processed within 30 calendar days of receiving the necessary completed application, proof, and payment. Additionally, it prohibits employees of the Office of Vital Records from teleworking, except during declared emergencies, as determined necessary by the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. This restriction applies to both permanent and temporary employees within the office. The act becomes effective immediately upon enactment into law.

Of the three sponsors of this bill, Lazzara proposed the most bills (38) during the 2025 regular session.

Bills in North Carolina follow a multi-step process before becoming law. A lawmaker starts by filing a bill, which is assigned to a committee for review. The bill must be read three times in each chamber. If one chamber changes the bill after the other passes it, both must agree on the final version. Once both chambers approve the same bill, it goes to the governor, who has 10 days (or 30 if the legislature is not in session) to sign, veto, or let it become law without a signature.

You can read more about the bills and other measures here.

Lazzara, a Republican, was elected to the North Carolina State Senate in 2021 to represent the state’s 6th Senate district, replacing previous state senator Harry Brown.