NC S486

Prohibits employers from discriminating on the basis of gender in payment of salary, wages, benefits, and other compensation for comparable work, defined as work requiring substantially similar skill, effort, responsibility, and working conditions.

Allows wage variations based on seniority systems, merit systems, productivity measures, geographic location, education/training/experience related to the job, and necessary travel, provided pregnancy-related and protected family/medical leave does not reduce seniority.

Declares it unlawful for employers to prohibit wage discussions, screen applicants based on wage history, seek prior salary information before making a job offer, or retaliate against employees for opposing violations or participating in related proceedings.

Establishes a three-year statute of limitations for lawsuits, with damages equal to unpaid wages and potential awards of attorneys' fees and court costs; prior wage history cannot be used as a defense.

Requires employers to post notice in conspicuous workplace locations informing employees of their rights under this act; becomes effective January 1, 2020.