This bill introduces new employment protections for the spouses of military service members who are involuntarily mobilized for up to one year and one day in support of war, national emergencies, or contingency operations. It amends RSA 110-C by adding a new section that prohibits employers from discharging, refusing to hire, or taking any adverse employment actions against employees based on their spouse's involuntary mobilization. Employers are also required to reemploy these employees in their previous positions or equivalent roles upon the completion of the mobilization, while any leave taken during this period will be unpaid and without benefits unless the employer opts to provide them.

Additionally, the bill mandates that employees must notify their employers of their spouse's mobilization within 30 days and that employers must acknowledge this notice in writing. Employees who believe their rights under this statute have been violated can file a complaint with the New Hampshire Department of Labor within 180 days. If a violation is confirmed, the employer may be liable for reinstatement, back pay, and lost benefits, and the Department of Labor is tasked with establishing rules for handling such complaints. The bill is designed to align with the federal Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) and is set to take effect on January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced:
As Amended by the House:
As Amended by the Senate: