Thank you for taking the time to read our latest newsletter, which we offer as a resource for keeping constituents informed on current legislation and other recent developments that affect Eastern NC.
All in Politics
Senator Jim Perry: What is Legislative Crossover?
"Passing legislation requires good subject matter, the ability to get along with your colleagues, and an understanding of basic math because you must have enough votes in support of your issue," says NC Senate Finance Committee Chairman, Sen. Jim Perry (R - Craven, Beaufort and Lenoir). With the "crossover" date looming, North Carolina lawmakers are gearing up for a crucial period when bills must pass from one legislative chamber to the other or risk being "dead."
John Hood: Spend Now, Reap Benefits Later
When the North Carolina House of Representatives approved its state budget plan a couple of weeks ago, the proposed pay raises for public employees, tax relief, and policy changes found within the budget bill commanded the lion’s share of public attention.
John Hood: Suburban Surge Drove GOP Success
North Carolina has long been a political battleground — but the shape of that battlefield has changed significantly over time.
Rep. Chris Humphrey: April Legislative Update
I hope this email finds you well. I sincerely thank you for taking the time to read our latest legislative newsletter. Whether you are a resident of our district or just someone interested in the issues that impact our state, this newsletter is a sound resource for informing constituents on current legislation and other recent developments that directly impact Eastern NC.
John Hood: Sweat the details on teacher pay
The General Assembly ought to enact big pay increases for educators in North Carolina’s public schools. In the context of soaring prices, strong revenue collections, tight labor markets, and persistent vacancies in key teaching positions, it’s the right thing to do.
Sen. Jim Perry: The North Carolina Budget Process
The North Carolina state budget covers a two year period known as a biennium. The biennium matches up with the Legislative Long Session in year one and the Legislative Short Session in year two.
Second Amendment supporters celebrate as NC House overrides Governor's veto
Today, following veto override votes in the North Carolina Senate and House of Representatives, Senate Bill 41 became law. This is the first successful override of Gov. Roy Cooper’s veto since 2018.
Governor Cooper vetoes legislation eliminating sheriffs’ background checks for handguns
Governor Cooper made the following statement on SB 41:
"Eliminating strong background checks will allow more domestic abusers and other dangerous people to own handguns and reduces law enforcement's ability to stop them from committing violent crimes. Second Amendment supporting, responsible gun owners know this will put families and communities at risk.”
North Carolina Awarded $500,000 to Help More People Afford High-Speed Internet
North Carolina will get $500,000 to help more low-income households afford monthly high-speed internet service, Governor Roy Cooper announced.
Senator Perry’s 2nd Amendment Bill Powers Forward
Senator Jim Perry, (R- Craven, Beaufort, Lenoir) is headed for a showdown with North Carolina Governor, Roy Cooper. Perry is one of three primary sponsors of Senate Bill 41, “Guarantee 2nd Amendment Freedom and Protections.”
Governor Cooper Lets Two Bills Become Law
Governor Roy Cooper let the following bills become law without his signature:
John Hood: Labor Participation Is Falling Again
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics just released its latest jobs report for North Carolina and the rest of the country. As usual, the report contained a mixture of good news and bad.
Sen. Berger Statement on Gov. Cooper's Reckless Budget Proposal
Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) released the following statement on Gov. Roy Cooper's budget proposal:
NC House Speaker Tim Moore Responds to Governor Cooper's Unrealistic Budget Proposal
State House Speaker Tim Moore (R-Cleveland) released the following statement Wednesday following the release of Governor Roy Cooper’s budget proposal.
Governor Cooper Releases Proposed Budget, First in Opportunity
Governor Roy Cooper released his recommended budget for FY 2023-2025, First in Opportunity. The plan put forth by the Governor builds on the state’s success and “once-in-a-generation” opportunity by investing in North Carolina families, businesses, and communities.
Governor Cooper Signs Executive Order Establishing State Office of Violence Prevention
Governor Roy Cooper announced the creation of a statewide Office of Violence Prevention that will be located in the North Carolina Department of Public Safety.
John Hood: Partisan Elections Are the Best Kind
When I returned home to North Carolina from the nation’s capital in 1989 and subsequently registered to vote, I opted not to join a political party.
John Hood: COVID Mandates Were Too Strict
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in early 2020, Gov. Roy Cooper and other officials began exercising government power in ways unprecedented in modern times
MEET THE GUESTS: Governor Cooper to Deliver Fourth State of the State Address Highlighting Historic Investments and Opportunities Ahead for North Carolina
Governor Roy Cooper delivered his fourth State of the State address, emphasizing that North Carolina is at a pivotal moment with opportunities for historical investments rebuilding North Carolina’s infrastructure, communities and economy.