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, 110-C:1-a, which prohibits employers from discharging, refusing to hire, or taking any adverse employment action against employees based on their spouse's involuntary mobilization. The bill also mandates that employers must reemploy these employees in their previous positions or equivalent roles after the mobilization period, while any leave taken during this time will be unpaid and without benefits unless the employer opts to provide them. Employees are required to notify their employers of their spouse's mobilization within 30 days and must apply for reemployment upon the completion of the mobilization.

Additionally, the bill allows employees to file complaints with the New Hampshire Department of Labor if they believe their rights under this statute have been violated, with potential remedies including reinstatement, back pay, and coverage of legal fees. The bill emphasizes that it should be interpreted in conjunction with the federal Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA) and does not limit any rights provided under federal law. The effective date for this act is set for January 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced:
As Amended by the House: