Veterans & National Guard Preference Policy
State law requires that employment preference be given for having served in the Armed Forces of the United States on active duty (for reasons other than training) during periods of war or any other campaign, expedition, or engagement for which a campaign badge or medal is authorized by the United States Department of Defense. The preference to be accorded eligible veterans shall apply in initial employment, subsequent employment, promotions, reassignments, horizontal transfers and reduction in-force situations.
- Statutory Authority: G.S. 126‑4(4); 128‑15
- Administrative Rule: 25 NCAC 01H .1100
Important Note:
Session Law 2025-34 (Senate Bill 124) became law on July 1, 2025. This session law amends the North Carolina Human Resources Act in several ways. The changes in Session Law 2025-34 will result in changes to this policy, because the bill changes the substance of some of the laws that are interpreted in this policy. The changes in Session Law 2025-34 provide more flexibility to state employees and employers, especially in the hiring process.
As a result, this policy will be amended at upcoming State Human Resources Commission meetings in 2025. Until the policy is amended, follow the statute, not this policy, if anything in the statute contradicts this policy.
If you have any questions, contact Wesley Davis, OSHR Legislative Director, at (984) 236-0806 or Wesley.Davis@nc.gov.