NC H423

Creates Article 24 of Chapter 95 (labor laws) to extend family and medical leave protections to employees caring for grandchildren, grandparents, siblings, domestic partners, civil union partners, and individuals with close family-equivalent relationships beyond those covered by federal FMLA.

Requires employers subject to FMLA to provide the same leave entitlements, protections, and restrictions to eligible employees caring for extended family members as they provide for care of spouses, children, and parents under federal law.

Grants eligible employees protection from discrimination and retaliation, rights to reinstatement, and continuation of health care benefits when taking leave under this Act.

Makes leave rights enforceable through civil action in addition to other available legal remedies.

Takes effect July 1, 2019 and applies to all North Carolina employers subject to federal FMLA requirements.