Cooper allowing some state workers to use leave time to deal with abusive situations at home

The executive order allows eligible state employees in cabinet agencies to use earned leave for “safe days,” which workers can use to take absences from work due to domestic violence, sexual assault or stalking.

Cooper said in a written statement that it is important to ensure that state employees take action and get the help they may need if they are in an abusive situation at home.

“Domestic violence survivors should have the flexibility they need to recover and protect the safety of their families,” Cooper said. “Today’s executive directive is an important signal to state employees affected by domestic violence that we are here to support them as they rebuild their lives.”

According to the 2019 Status of Women in North Carolina Health and Wellness report, 35 percent of women statewide have experienced at least one type of intimate partner or sexual violence. In 2018, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety reported 103 domestic violence-related homicides, and 47 domestic violence homicides have been reported in the state so far this year.

Cooper encouraged employers across the state to offer the same guarantee to their employees.

“It is important for us to continue to support our employees and help them on their roads to recovery,” Barbara Gibson, director of the Office of State Human Resources, said in a statement.

“We thank and applaud Gov. Cooper for the executive directive he signed today, which will make it possible for state employees who have suffered violence or abuse to access earned sick and vacation leave while they get the expert help they urgently need to protect themselves and their children,” said Beth Messersmith, senior campaign director for North Carolina for MomsRising.