(a) The Commissioner may contract with consultants and other professionals to expedite and complete the application process, examinations, and other regulatory activities required under this Article. Costs of contracts entered into under this section shall be reimbursed by the applicant or licensee.
(b) Contracts under this section for financial, legal, examination, and other services shall not be subject to any of the following:
(1) G.S. 114-2.3.
(2) G.S. 147-17.
(3) Articles 3, 3C, and 8 of Chapter 143 of the General Statutes and any rules and procedures adopted under those Articles concerning procurement, contracting, and contract review.