NC S123

Expands the definition of "veteran" to include any person who served on active duty in the Armed Forces for reasons other than training and was honorably discharged, removing the previous requirement that service occur during a "period of war."

Broadens "eligible veteran" status to include all veterans on active duty, spouses of disabled veterans, and surviving spouses or dependents of service members who die during peacetime for service-related reasons.

Applies veterans' employment preference in North Carolina state hiring to initial employment and extends the preference to subsequent hirings, promotions, reassignments, and horizontal transfers.

Amends both G.S. 126-80 and G.S. 128-15 to reflect policy changes recognizing veterans' service to state and country and their lost civilian career opportunities.

Takes effect upon becoming law.