NC S332

Expands public records requirements for state employees by mandating that agencies maintain and disclose general descriptions of reasons for all personnel actions (promotions, demotions, transfers, suspensions, separations) and employee performance records to the extent they exist.

Requires written notice of final dismissal decisions setting forth specific acts or omissions as the basis for termination to be included in public personnel records for state agencies, schools, community colleges, counties, cities, and area authorities.

Applies the same expanded transparency requirements to local boards of education, community college boards of trustees, county employees, city employees, and mental health area authorities.

Modifies G.S. 143-318.16B to allow courts to award reasonable attorney's fees to parties who substantially prevail in enforcing public records compliance, with exceptions for governmental bodies acting in reasonable reliance on court judgments, appellate opinions, or Attorney General guidance.

Becomes effective December 1, 2013.