NC H543

Creates the Caregiver Relief Act to provide workplace leave protections for employees caring for siblings, grandparents, grandchildren, stepparents, and parents-in-law, extending similar protections currently available under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA).

Requires employers subject to the FMLA to grant eligible employees the same leave entitlements, protections against discrimination, reinstatement rights, and health care continuation benefits for care of extended family members as they currently provide for care of spouses, children, or parents.

Applies to all employers in North Carolina that are subject to the FMLA and permits enforcement of rights under the Act through civil action.

Adds Article 24 to Chapter 95 of the General Statutes and amends the anti-retaliation statute to protect employees from discrimination for asserting rights under the Caregiver Relief Act.

Becomes effective July 1, 2017.