NC S338

Prohibits employers from discriminating in payment of wages based on employee gender for comparable work requiring substantially similar skill, effort, responsibility, and working conditions.

Allows wage variations based on seniority systems, merit systems, production/sales quality, geographic location, job-related education or experience, and necessary travel, provided pregnancy-related leave and protected parental/family/medical leave do not reduce seniority.

Makes it unlawful for employers to require wage secrecy, screen applicants by salary history, seek prospective employee salary history without written authorization after a job offer, or retaliate against employees who discuss wages or oppose violations.

Employers violating this section are liable for unpaid wages, benefits, and compensation owed to employees; courts may award reasonable attorneys' fees and costs; employees have three years from violation date to file suit.

Requires employers to post workplace notices informing employees of their rights under this act; effective date is January 1, 2024.