North Carolina Whistleblower Law
Recognizes a public policy exception to the at-will employment doctrine in tort.
Court Decisions:
- Sides v. Duke University, 328 S.E.2d 818 (N.C. App. 1985)
- Coman v. Thomas Mfg. Co., 381 S.E.2d 445 (N.C. 1989)
- McDonnell v. Tradewind Airlines, Inc., 670 S.E.2d 302 (N.C. 2009)
Statutes:
- NC Gen Stat § 95-240–245 (retaliatory employment discrimination)
- NC Gen Stat § 126-84–88 (Reporting Improper Government Activities)
Frequently Asked Questions
Does North Carolina have a False Claims Act (FCA)?
Yes. The North Carolina False Claims Act covers many frauds against the state beyond just healthcare fraud.
Does the North Carolina FCA have a whistleblower provision?
Yes. In North Carolina, a false claims whistleblower may receive an award of 15 to 25 percent of the collections in cases where the state intervenes and 25 to 30 percent in cases where there is no state intervention.
Does North Carolina recognize the public policy exception for wrongful termination?
Yes. In North Carolina, an employee fired for refusing to break the state’s policy will likely have a viable wrongful discharge claim.
