Why does motion detector switch need a white lead?

I have a “Decora 180 degree manual on occupancy sensor w/locator light” wall switch for use in a closet. However my contractor says that he cannot install it because there is no white lead going to it. Why, specifically, does this switch need that neutral lead when others do not?

Your current situation is a switch loop.
It is a normal, correct arrangement. Essentially the power source comes into the light fixture and the “break” switch is in the wall mount switch box. Another arrangement would be for the power source to come into the switch bow, where the black lead would be the “break (switched lead) In THAT case you would have a white lead available and a power source to run the new motion sensitive switch.

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