NC H643

Adds protections for county law enforcement officers who report improper or unlawful government activity to supervisors, department heads, or appropriate authorities by prohibiting discharge, threats, or discrimination based on such reports.

Adds identical protections for municipal law enforcement officers employed by city or unified city-county police agencies who report violations of law, fraud, misappropriation of resources, dangers to public health and safety, or gross mismanagement.

Prohibits retaliation by employing agencies or other officers against those who refuse to carry out directives that violate state or federal law or pose substantial danger to public health and safety.

Allows officers to file civil actions in superior court within one year seeking damages, injunctions, reinstatement, back wages, fringe benefits, attorneys' fees, and triple damages for willful violations.

Requires employing agencies to post notice or use other appropriate means to inform officers of their protections and obligations under these provisions; effective October 1, 2013.