NC H696

Establishes a family and medical leave insurance program beginning January 1, 2022, providing wage replacement benefits to eligible employees for qualifying reasons including childbirth, adoption, serious health conditions, caring for family members, military service, and qualifying exigencies.

Provides maximum benefit durations of 18 weeks for employee's own serious health condition, 12 weeks for new child care or family member care, and 26 weeks for caring for a covered service member.

Benefits replace 90% of wages up to the state average weekly wage and 50% of wages above that threshold, with a minimum of $100 per week and maximum of 100% of state average weekly wage.

Requires employers to contribute to a "Families First Fund" beginning January 1, 2021, with contribution rates set by the Assistant Secretary based on actuarial principles; employees cannot be charged more than 50% of contributions.

Prohibits employer retaliation against employees for requesting or using benefits, requires job protection and health insurance continuation during leave, and establishes enforcement mechanisms including damages up to 12 weeks of wages and attorney's fees for violations.