Senate Bill 815 - NC Paid Family Leave Insurance Act

• Establishes a paid family and medical leave insurance program in North Carolina effective July 4, 2024, administered by the Division of Employment Security within the Department of Commerce.

• Provides eligible covered individuals with up to 12 weeks of paid leave per 12-month period for qualifying exigency leave or birth/adoption/foster care, and up to 26 weeks for caring for a family member with a serious health condition or recovering from their own serious health condition.

• Weekly benefit amounts equal the employee's average weekly wage divided by state average weekly wage (20% minimum, 120% maximum of state average weekly wage), reduced by any other wage replacement received.

• Requires employer and employee contributions to a Paid Family and Medical Leave Fund on a quarterly basis, with contribution rates established by the Division, and provides job protection and health benefit continuation for employees on approved leave.

• Establishes civil penalties ranging from $100 to $1,000 per violation for employers or individuals who fail to comply with contribution requirements, reporting obligations, or other provisions of the program.