Rep. Setzer files bill in North Carolina House to amend engineering and surveying regulations

A new bill filed by State Rep. Setzer seeks to enhance professional regulation and practice under the North Carolina Engineering and Land Surveying Act, according to the North Carolina State House.

The bill, filed as HB 435 on March 18 during the 2025 regular session, was formally listed with the short title: ‘Mod. Bd. of Eng’ers & Surveyors.’

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

In essence, this bill amends the North Carolina Engineering and Land Surveying Act to enhance professional regulation and practice by modifying licensure requirements, board powers, disciplinary procedures, and other provisions. It reenacts previous definitions and standards for land surveyor interns and establishes retroactive applicability for certain certifications and licenses from July 1, 2022. It outlines the qualifications and procedures for certifying engineer and land surveyor interns, including examination and education requirements. The bill also enhances the Board of Examiners for Engineers and Surveyors’ authority, allowing for licensing requirements, rule-making, disciplinary actions, and education programs. Additionally, the bill updates regulations for license renewals, reinstatements, and hardship cases, and clarifies penalties for unlawful practice. It sets an effective date of Oct. 1, 2025, for most provisions, allowing the board to adopt necessary implementing rules.

Of the four sponsors of this bill, Grant L. Campbell, MD proposed the most bills (30) 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.

Setzer graduated from the University of North Carolina, Greensboro in 1987 with a BA.

Setzer, a Republican, was elected to the North Carolina State House in 1999 to represent the state’s 89th House district, replacing previous state representative Robert Brawley.