NC S458

Employees may use up to 5 consecutive days of accrued sick leave per calendar year to care for family members, including children, grandchildren, siblings, spouses, domestic partners, parents, grandparents, and those with equivalent close relationships

"Family member" is broadly defined to include biological, foster, adopted, and step-relatives, as well as domestic partners, civil union partners, and individuals related by blood or with close associations equivalent to family

Sick leave may also be used when an employee or family member is a victim of stalking, domestic violence, or sexual violence for purposes including medical attention, counseling, relocation, legal services, or obtaining restraining orders

Employers are prohibited from retaliating against employees who file claims or complaints under this new section, with the law added to existing anti-retaliation protections

The act applies to all employers including the State and political subdivisions, becomes effective October 1, 2025, and does not extend FMLA leave entitlements or apply to ERISA-governed benefits