LGBTQ rights in North Carolina

LGBTQ rights in North Carolina
StatusLegal since 2003
(Lawrence v. Texas)
Gender identityAltering sex on birth certificate does not require sex reassignment surgery
Discrimination protectionsSexual orientation and gender identity discrimination prohibited in public employment.
Family rights
Recognition of relationshipsSame-sex marriage since 2014
AdoptionYes

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) people in the U.S. state of North Carolina may face legal challenges not experienced by non-LGBTQ residents, or LGBT residents of other states with more liberal laws.

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in North Carolina as a result of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Lawrence v. Texas, although the state legislature has not repealed its sodomy law. The state has recognized same-sex marriage since October 10, 2014. However, an amendment to a bill prohibiting discrimination against LGBT persons in charter schools has not been signed into law.