NC S154

Prohibits employment discrimination based on race, color, creed, religion, sex, or national origin by any person, firm, corporation, state agency, local government, or public/private entity in North Carolina

Expands the definition of "race" to include traits historically associated with race, specifically hair texture, hair type, and protective hairstyles

Defines "protective hairstyles" to include bantu knots, braids, locks, and twists

Adds retaliation protections for employees who file complaints or participate in investigations related to this new anti-discrimination provision

Takes effect immediately upon becoming law and applies to employers, employees, and prospective employees from that date forward