NC S535

Requires employers subject to the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) to provide the same leave protections to employees caring for siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, stepparents, and parents-in-law as they provide for care of spouses, children, or parents.

Extends FMLA protections including reinstatement rights, anti-discrimination protections, and continuation of health care benefits to employees taking leave under this act.

Applies to all North Carolina employers currently covered by the FMLA with no new limitations on the amount or conditions of leave, which remain identical to federal FMLA requirements.

Adds Article 24 of Chapter 95 of the General Statutes and amends G.S. 95-241(a) to include caregiver leave rights in the state's anti-retaliation and anti-discrimination protections for employees.

Takes effect July 1, 2013, and applies to covered employers and eligible employees on or after that date.