Bill > H826

This bill establishes comprehensive legal protections for mandatory reporters in North Carolina, ensuring they can fulfill their legal reporting duties without fear of workplace retaliation. The legislation defines mandatory reporters as individuals legally required to report suspected abuse, neglect, dependency, fraud, or other conditions threatening health and safety across various contexts, including child protection, healthcare, and social services. Under this bill, employers are prohibited from taking adverse employment actions (such as firing, demoting, or reducing salary) against employees who make good-faith reports as required by law. Employees who believe they have experienced retaliation can file a complaint with the North Carolina Commissioner of Labor, who will investigate and can order remedies including reinstatement, compensation for lost wages, and civil penalties up to $5,000. The bill provides a specific process for proving retaliation, with a rebuttable presumption of retaliation if adverse action occurs within 60 days of a mandatory report. Employers must provide employees with notice of their rights and mandatory reporting training, and the law does not prevent disciplinary actions for legitimate work performance issues. Importantly, these protections are intended to supplement existing employment rights and whistleblower protections, creating a narrow exception to at-will employment specifically to protect mandatory reporters. The law will take effect on July 1, 2025, and apply to acts occurring on or after that date.

Government Affairs

https://www.ncleg.gov/BillLookUp/2025/H826