NC S628

Establishes a new "Day Laborer Protection Act" creating comprehensive labor protections for day laborers hired through day labor agencies, including requirements for employment notices, recordkeeping, and wage payment transparency.

Requires day labor agencies to register with the Department of Labor and prohibits agencies from operating without registration; establishes Department oversight with authority to suspend or revoke registrations.

Prohibits day labor agencies and third-party clients from charging fees for transportation, charging for unconsumed meals, or requiring meal purchases as a condition of employment; limits equipment charges to actual market value.

Guarantees day laborers minimum wage compliance, detailed itemized wage statements listing hours worked and all deductions, and four hours of minimum pay if contracted but not utilized by a third-party client.

Allows day laborers and day labor agencies to sue for violations in civil court within three years, with remedies including denied wages plus equal liquidated damages and attorney's fees; adds retaliation protections under existing whistleblower laws.