NC H1118

Repeals S.L. 2016-3 (HB2), effective March 23, 2016, restoring local government authority over employment and public accommodations laws.

Adds sexual orientation, gender identity, and veteran status as protected classes from discrimination in employment for employers with 15 or more employees, and establishes a private right of action with treble damages and attorney's fees for intentional violations.

Creates new Equal Access to Public Accommodations Act protecting individuals from discrimination based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, and veteran status, with private right of action for violations.

Permits employers and public accommodations to provide separate bathrooms or changing facilities based on gender, but requires access be provided based on a person's gender identity.

Appropriates $545,407 in recurring funds to the Human Relations Commission for the 2016-2017 fiscal year for operating expenses.