N.C. Gen. Stat. § 143-57

In case of any emergency or pressing need arising from unforeseen causes including but not limited to delay by contractors, delay in transportation, breakdown in machinery, or unanticipated volume of work, the Secretary of Administration shall have power to obtain or authorize obtaining in the open market any necessary supplies, materials, equipment, printing or services for immediate delivery to any department, institution or agency of the State government. A report on the circumstances of such emergency or need and the transactions thereunder shall be made a matter of record promptly thereafter. If the expenditure exceeds the benchmark established under G.S. 143-53.1, the report shall also be made promptly thereafter to the Division of Purchase and Contract.