NC H139

Enacts a Mental Health Workers' Bill of Rights as a new Article 8 in Chapter 122C of the General Statutes, establishing core policy elements for mental health workers in North Carolina.

Guarantees workers the right to a safe workplace, including protection from harm and the right to refuse dangerous work.

Establishes rights to adequate staffing levels, updated equipment and techniques, family-supporting wages, and the right to refuse excessive overtime.

Requires timely briefings about patient behaviors assigned to workers and guarantees treatment with respect and dignity regardless of job classification.

Protects workers from discrimination based on race, gender, age, national origin, immigration status, sexual orientation, disabilities, physical abilities, or religion.