North CarolinaHB 5682025-2026 SessionHouse

AN ACT MAKING OMNIBUS AMENDMENTS TO LAWS PERTAINING TO THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPARTMENT OF LABOR.

Sponsored By: Wyatt Gable (Republican), Cody Huneycutt (Republican), Kyle Hall (Republican), Mike Schietzelt (Republican)

Signed by Governor

COUNCIL OF STATECOURTSDEATH & DYINGDHHSEMPLOYMENTEVIDENCEINSPECTIONSLABOR DEPT

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

5 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 3 mixed.

Faster autopsy sharing in work deaths

Beginning June 27, 2025, the Chief Medical Examiner must send the initial investigative report of a work‑related death to the Labor Commissioner within 30 days. If the Commissioner asks in writing, the finalized autopsy must be provided within five months. This speeds workplace fatality investigations.

New elevator safety bureau and fees

Beginning June 27, 2025, the Department of Labor creates an Elevator and Amusement Device Bureau. The Bureau oversees elevators, lifts, escalators, and similar equipment. The Commissioner can charge inspection and certificate fees up to $200 for each installation or alteration, each follow‑up, and each annual inspection. Owners of covered devices should expect these per‑visit charges.

Employers must post work rules notice

Beginning June 27, 2025, every employer with five or more employees must post a notice about wage, hour, and working condition laws. The notice must be in a place workers can see. The Commissioner of Labor provides the printed form on request. This adds a small compliance step for employers and gives workers clearer information.

Faster adoption of federal safety rules

Beginning June 27, 2025, the state can adopt rules that match federal OSHA standards without publishing the text or holding a hearing. The Division must file the rule so people can send written objections. Also, the Commissioner can set arbitration procedures without needing prior written approval from the Attorney General.

Stricter hearing rules in safety cases

Beginning June 27, 2025, prehearing discovery is allowed only if the respondent asks for it. If asked, the Commission must allow depositions and document requests under Rule 26. Written Department inspection reports are admissible like the author testified unless clearly unreliable or unfair. The Commissioner and DOL employees can be forced to testify only in limited cases, such as when DOL is a party, the Commissioner consents, or a court finds the testimony essential and no other source exists.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Cosponsors

Jeffrey C. McNeely
Republican • House
Bill Ward
Republican • House

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 170 • No: 101

House vote • 6/17/2025

HB 568: 2025 Omnibus Labor Amendments.

Yes: 72 • No: 42 • Other: 6

Senate vote • 6/10/2025

HB 568: 2025 Omnibus Labor Amendments.-AB

Yes: 26 • No: 17 • Other: 7

House vote • 4/29/2025