NC S469

Creates a new cause of action allowing citizens to sue public entities (state boards, commissions, departments, and political subdivisions) that knowingly fail to comply with statutory or regulatory obligations, waiving governmental immunity for such claims

Establishes civil penalties of $5,500 to $11,000 per violation, plus costs, for public entities found to have knowingly failed to comply with legal obligations

Allows private citizens to file "qui tam" lawsuits on behalf of the State, with complaints filed under seal for at least 120 days while the Attorney General decides whether to intervene and take over the case

Awards qui tam plaintiffs 15-25% of recovered proceeds if the State joins the case, or 25-30% if the State declines to participate, plus reasonable attorneys' fees and expenses

Protects employees, contractors, and agents from retaliation for reporting violations, providing remedies including reinstatement, double back pay, and attorneys' fees for those who face discrimination