The Carolina Journal News Hour on WBT

A new state audit has found that nearly 80% of North Carolina’s inactive landfills are not being monitored, raising environmental concerns about potential groundwater contamination and long-term oversight. Theresa Opeka of Carolina Journal joins the program to break down the findings and what they could mean for state regulators. Meanwhile, the North Carolina House is advancing legislation that would overhaul the municipal deannexation process, potentially making it easier for property owners to leave city limits. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation also examines a Certificate of Need case in which a New Bern eye surgeon is asking the state Supreme Court to reverse a lower court ruling. Plus, the U.S. House has approved legislation that would make daylight saving time permanent if it ultimately becomes law.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina transportation officials say the Department of Transportation fared well in the new state budget, with a major focus on continuing Hurricane Helene recovery and rebuilding efforts in western North Carolina. Meanwhile, the State Board of Education is raising questions about changes to Opportunity Scholarship funding and implementation of the state's new DEI law. Brian Balfour of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to analyze CNBC’s latest rankings, which once again place North Carolina among the nation’s top states for business. Plus, the new state budget increases the tax on sports wagering and authorizes prediction markets, expanding North Carolina’s gaming landscape.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The State Health Plan has approved premium increases and a new preferred provider structure as officials continue efforts to improve the plan’s long-term financial stability. Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina has also secured new third-party administrator and pharmacy benefit manager contracts, marking a significant shift in how benefits will be managed. Meanwhile, CNBC has once again ranked North Carolina among the nation’s top two states for business for the sixth consecutive year, and the new state budget includes nearly $49 million to preserve farmland across the state.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A new audit of Rocky Mount finances found no evidence of double billing but did uncover unpaid utility bills tied to city officials, raising additional questions about local financial management. Meanwhile, North Carolina’s new state budget scales back tax incentives for data centers as lawmakers revisit the balance between economic development and taxpayer costs. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss a Fourth Circuit ruling finding that Charlotte-Mecklenburg police effectively "seized" a defendant by positioning a patrol vehicle near him, a decision with potential implications for future law enforcement encounters. Plus, State Auditor Dave Boliek has reassigned his office’s election liaison duties, saying the effort to assist county election boards is winding down.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The program recaps this week’s Council of State meeting, including North Carolina surpassing 100,000 new business registrations, updates on the state’s agricultural industry, and recognition of a Medal of Honor recipient. Katie Zehnder of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss the new state budget’s elimination of vehicle emissions inspections for most drivers. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein has vetoed legislation addressing homelessness while signing a dozen other bills into law. Plus, Stein is asking the North Carolina Supreme Court to extend briefing deadlines into October in an ongoing legal dispute with legislative leaders.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governor Josh Stein has signed North Carolina’s $34 billion state budget into law just ahead of the deadline, with the program featuring extensive audio from the governor outlining the budget’s investments in education, public safety, Hurricane Helene recovery, and other statewide priorities, while also highlighting areas where he believes the spending plan falls short. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss the latest developments in litigation stemming from COVID-era business closures, including a judge’s rejection of a motion filed by North Carolina bar owners and news that a separate case has been successfully mediated. Plus, Governor Stein signs four additional bipartisan bills into law.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The North Carolina General Assembly has adjourned after approving the state budget, with lawmakers scheduled to return on July 27 to address remaining legislative business. Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal joins the program to recap the end of the session and what issues remain unresolved. Governor Josh Stein is expected to announce his decision on the budget, which includes repealing Certificate of Need requirements for inpatient rehabilitation facilities, while two Republican senators opposed the spending plan over ferry toll provisions. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation also discusses a lawsuit filed by Sam Page against Kevin Berger.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As summer tourism returns to western North Carolina, Lake Lure continues balancing a busy season with the ongoing recovery from Hurricane Helene. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein has signed several bills into law, including measures aimed at improving police retention and strengthening child protection. The program also looks at new Trump Accounts, a federal savings initiative that could benefit roughly two million children in North Carolina. Plus, a closer look at what it would take to bring Major League Baseball to Raleigh, including the potential price tag and who could ultimately pay for a new stadium.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina lawmakers have given final approval to a $34 billion state budget, sending the spending plan to Governor Josh Stein for his consideration. Andrew Pomeranz of Carolina Journal joins the program to break down the budget's key provisions and what comes next as the governor weighs whether to sign, veto, or allow it to become law. The budget also includes nearly $134 million for the delayed JetZero manufacturing project in Greensboro. Meanwhile, FEMA has approved $197 million in additional funding for western North Carolina recovery efforts after completing a fraud review of disaster assistance requests.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The first round of legislative votes on North Carolina's new state budget have passed, featuring extensive audio from lawmakers on both sides of the debate. Republican leaders, including Speaker Destin Hall and other budget architects, outline the spending plan's priorities and defend its tax cuts, pay raises, and policy provisions. Democratic lawmakers respond with criticism of the budget's spending priorities and areas they believe fall short.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina lawmakers have unveiled the long-awaited state budget, with the program breaking down its biggest provisions and fiscal priorities. Brian Balfour of the John Locke Foundation joins the show to examine the budget's topline spending figures and overall framework. The discussion continues with a closer look at pay raises, tax cuts, and other major policy changes, followed by highlights covering Hurricane Helene recovery funding, education, healthcare, capital projects, and reserve funds. Plus, lawmakers are considering legislation that would expand portable benefit options for independent contractors and other members of the gig economy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina legislative leaders have reached a long-awaited state budget agreement, with votes planned before the July 4 holiday. Meanwhile, Duke Energy will reinvest $129 million into new generation and grid improvements after canceling its offshore wind lease off the North Carolina coast. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss the latest developments in the COVID shutdown lawsuit, as bar owners seek to depose former Governor Roy Cooper and former Health Secretary Mandy Cohen.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Efforts to override Governor Josh Stein’s veto of North Carolina’s concealed carry legislation remain stalled in the House as Republican leaders continue working to secure enough votes. Meanwhile, U.S. Senator Ted Budd says he cannot support the Trump administration’s latest funding request because it does not include additional Hurricane Helene relief for western North Carolina. Brian Balfour of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to outline five key priorities lawmakers should focus on as budget negotiations continue. Plus, a new report shows North Carolina ranks among the highest-taxed states in the nation on distilled spirits and beer.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A wide-ranging elections bill has cleared the House Rules Committee but continues to face concerns from some Republicans as well as bipartisan criticism ahead of a possible floor vote. Meanwhile, members of the Lumbee Tribe have voted against a proposed casino development along I-95 in Robeson County, effectively ending the project. New polling also shows Roy Cooper holding a double-digit lead over Michael Whatley in the U.S. Senate race while President Donald Trump remains underwater with North Carolina voters. Theresa Opeka of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss the State Board of Elections' decision to censure Wake County election officials over ballots cast in the names of deceased voters. Plus, a look ahead at another busy week in the General Assembly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The North Carolina House voted to override several of Governor Josh Stein’s vetoes, including legislation dealing with immigration enforcement and DEI policies, audio and debate from the House floor. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss a $450 million federal settlement with Chemours over PFAS contamination and chemical releases affecting North Carolina, New Jersey, and West Virginia.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Stanley Cup made a special stop at the North Carolina General Assembly as lawmakers welcomed Carolina Hurricanes head coach Rod Brind’Amour. Meanwhile, the state Senate is advancing legislation that would place new limits on the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare billing and claims processing. Healthcare remains in focus as 11 North Carolina hospitals have been warned by the Trump administration over pricing transparency requirements, while new data shows the state has the seventh-longest emergency room wait times in the nation. Plus, North Carolina is the the first state in the country to ban litigation investing, a practice critics argue allows outside investors to profit from lawsuits.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Charlotte City Council has selected Rob Harrington to serve as the city’s interim mayor, filling a key leadership vacancy in North Carolina’s largest city. Meanwhile, a new state audit reveals more than $61 million has been spent over three decades on the proposed Mid-Currituck Bridge despite construction never beginning, raising fresh questions about transportation planning and accountability. Governor Josh Stein has also signed six bills into law, including the latest Farm Act and what supporters describe as the nation’s first litigation ban of its kind. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss two major cases now before the North Carolina Supreme Court involving ongoing legal disputes between Governor Stein and legislative leaders. Plus, lawmakers return to Raleigh for another busy day at the General Assembly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Private sponsors are stepping in after North Carolina officially declined to participate in the America 250 Fair, ensuring some commemorative events tied to the nation’s 250th anniversary will still move forward. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein has signed legislation delaying new property tax valuations in certain counties, providing temporary relief from scheduled reappraisals. Senate leader Phil Berger is also floating the possibility of a state role in efforts to bring Major League Baseball to the Triangle. Plus, the U.S. Department of Education is investigating restroom policies in Buncombe and Cabarrus county schools, adding North Carolina to a growing national debate over student privacy and federal civil rights enforcement.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A sweeping elections bill has stalled in the North Carolina General Assembly following criticism and pushback from lawmakers and outside groups, leaving questions about the measure’s future. Meanwhile, North Carolina’s military communities are set to benefit from funding included in the U.S. Senate’s National Defense Authorization Act. Katie Zehnder of Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss how ongoing global instability is threatening fertilizer supply chains and creating concerns for farmers. Plus, North Carolina charter schools have reached record enrollment levels as the sector approaches its 30th anniversary.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The North Carolina House has unanimously approved the Dominique Moody Safety Act, legislation inspired by the tragic death of six-year-old Dominique Moody and aimed at strengthening child welfare protections. Audio from Rep. Carla Cunningham highlights the bipartisan support behind the measure. Meanwhile, new state audits have uncovered significant delays in unemployment benefit processing and identified roughly $47 million in fraudulent payments. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss a North Carolina Court of Appeals ruling allowing a lawsuit over a forced COVID-19 vaccination to move forward. Plus, a Raleigh man has been arrested after allegedly making threats on social media against President Donald Trump.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governor Josh Stein’s nominee to lead the Department of Public Safety is facing increased scrutiny from state senators over ethics concerns and questions surrounding her law enforcement record. Andy Jackson of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to examine House Bill 958, a wide-ranging elections measure that includes performance audits and other changes designed to strengthen oversight of North Carolina’s election system. Plus, lawmakers are tackling a packed agenda at the General Assembly as budget negotiations and major policy debates continue.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Legislative leaders are pushing back the timeline for finalizing North Carolina’s state budget, signaling that negotiations between House and Senate leaders remain ongoing. Meanwhile, JetZero has officially broken ground on its new Greensboro manufacturing facility, marking a major economic development milestone for the state. The Carolina Hurricanes’ run to the Stanley Cup Final is also generating a significant economic boost for businesses across the Triangle. Governor Josh Stein is requesting an additional $10 billion in funding for Hurricane Helene recovery efforts in western North Carolina, while Rocky Mount officials report steady progress toward improving the city’s long-term financial stability.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

General Assembly updates, incentive programs, budget framework and more on Monday's Carolina Journal News Hour.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Updates on Decarlos Brown, Helene relief and funding, rising utility rates and more on the Carolina Journal News HourSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina lawmakers have sent a bill delaying certain property tax reappraisals to Governor Stein's desk, continuing a broader debate over property tax relief and local government revenue. Meanwhile, sports wagering continues to generate significant revenue for the state, with collections approaching $300 million since legal betting launched in 2024. Andy Jackson of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss proposed updates to North Carolina's voter photo ID rules being considered by the State Board of Elections. Mitch Kokai also breaks down a court ruling confirming a Republican-backed legal victory in the ongoing dispute over so-called “never resident” voters. Plus, lawmakers are preparing for a busy finish to June as budget negotiations and major legislation remain unresolved.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State Rep. Sarah Stevens is stepping down from the North Carolina House to focus on her campaign for the state Supreme Court, creating another opening in the General Assembly. Meanwhile, new data shows that roughly two-thirds of Opportunity Scholarship funding is going to lower-income families, fueling continued debate over the state's school choice program. State Auditor Dave Boliek is also warning that financial distress is becoming an increasingly common problem for North Carolina municipalities. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss the latest developments in the federal case against Decarlos Brown Jr. surrounding a deadly Charlotte light rail murder. Plus, Amazon and Corning have reached an agreement to expand optical fiber manufacturing in North Carolina, bringing new investment to the state.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina lawmakers are asking the Mecklenburg County District Attorney to review whether criminal charges may be warranted against DSS officials following revelations uncovered during the Dominique Moody investigation. Theresa Opeka from Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss changes to the State Health Plan, including higher Medicare reimbursement rates and new provider tier structures aimed at controlling long-term costs. Andy Jackson of the John Locke Foundation also previews an upcoming State Board of Elections meeting, including public comment on proposed election recount rules. Plus, lawmakers return to Raleigh for what is expected to be another busy week at the General Assembly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Questions are growing about autism therapy providers in North Carolina following a New York Times report that raised concerns about practices at some clinics across the state. Meanwhile, the North Carolina Senate is reviving a study of open enrollment policies that could expand school choice options for families. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss an ongoing lawsuit filed by bar owners seeking compensation for COVID-era shutdown orders, with additional legal developments expected soon. Plus, Governor Josh Stein has signed an executive order aimed at strengthening support and coordination for North Carolina's military communities.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Testimony from a lengthy NC House Oversight Committee hearing examining the death of six-year-old Dominique Moody. Lawmakers questioned state and county officials for hours about decisions made by child welfare agencies and whether warning signs were missed before the child's death. The hearing focused on accountability, oversight failures, and potential reforms to North Carolina's child protective services system. Meanwhile, State Auditor Dave Boliek has announced plans to review the Opportunity Scholarship Program, adding another layer of scrutiny to one of the state's largest school choice initiatives.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina lawmakers are advancing several public safety measures as the House approves legislation aimed at reforming the state’s involuntary commitment process. Katie Zehnder from Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss a Senate bill focused on social media regulation and artificial intelligence safety. Andrew Pomeranz also breaks down the passage of Jaleeyah’s Law, a measure designed to strengthen penalties and enforcement tools against gang-related crime. Meanwhile, senators are reviewing legislation aimed at combating human trafficking, and the NC House Oversight Committee continues its investigation into the death of six-year-old Dominique Moody by summoning additional officials to testify.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Officials in western North Carolina are warning that debris left behind by Hurricane Helene could increase wildfire risks as temperatures rise and cleanup efforts continue. Theresa Opeka from Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss ongoing uncertainty surrounding state budget negotiations as lawmakers and Governor Stein remain at odds over some spending priorities. Mitch Kokai of the John Locke Foundation also examines a legal dispute over the construction of the proposed Kings Mountain casino, which is now before the state Court of Appeals. Meanwhile, the Carolina Hurricanes dropped Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final, and lawmakers are preparing for a busy day at the General Assembly with major votes and budget discussions expected.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governor Stein has announced a $100 million investment package tied to BorgWarner, but the deal is also generating renewed scrutiny of North Carolina’s Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) incentive program and how taxpayer dollars are used to attract businesses. Meanwhile, the NC House Oversight Committee is summoning state officials as lawmakers continue investigating the death of Dominique Moody. Brian Balfour of the John Locke Foundation joins the program to outline five key priorities lawmakers should consider as budget negotiations continue. Plus, hockey fever takes over North Carolina as the Carolina Hurricanes host Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final in Raleigh, marking the franchise’s first appearance in the championship series since 2006.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

June 1 marks the beginning of the Atlantic hurricane season, and forecasters are predicting a below-average year for storm activity. Meanwhile, North Carolina officials are launching a pilot program aimed at addressing ongoing staffing shortages within the state prison system. Theresa Opeka from Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss Governor Stein’s support for the emerging state budget framework and his calls for additional government spending. Plus, a Gastonia police K-9 officer has been honored with the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, while lawmakers return to Raleigh for what is expected to be a busy month of budget negotiations, veto overrides, and legislative debate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina officials are examining new strategies to combat gang violence as a state task force reviews law enforcement efforts and public safety priorities. Katie Zehnder from Carolina Journal joins the program to discuss delays in JetZero’s hiring plans as lawmakers continue debating budget and incentive funding. Mitch Kokai from the John Locke Foundation also breaks down a legal victory for food truck owners after Jacksonville declined to appeal a court ruling that challenged local restrictions on mobile vendors. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein has signed an order prohibiting state employees from participating in prediction markets, citing ethical concerns.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Raleigh continues to see strong economic momentum, ranking fourth among large U.S. metro areas for small business growth. At the same time, Republican groups are claiming victory in an ongoing legal dispute involving North Carolina’s “never resident” voters and election procedures. Mitch Kokai from the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss a lawsuit from bar owners seeking damages over COVID-era shutdown orders, with more legal clarity expected in June. Theresa Opeka from Carolina Journal also examines Governor Josh Stein’s warning against lowering North Carolina’s constitutional income tax cap. Meanwhile, another company has canceled plans to invest in North Carolina, raising fresh concerns about the state’s economic development efforts.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Governor Josh Stein is warning that North Carolina’s recovery funding is beginning to run low as the state continues responding to ongoing disaster and rebuilding needs. Mitch Kokai from the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss the sentencing of former major North Carolina political donor Greg Lindberg, who received 12 years in prison in a high-profile corruption case. Andrew Pomeranz from Carolina Journal also examines the proposed NextEra-Dominion merger and the potential impact it could have on North Carolina energy customers and utility rates. Meanwhile, the NC House Oversight Committee is summoning officials as lawmakers continue investigating the death of six-year-old Dominique Moody.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina lawmakers are considering new regulations on data centers alongside protections designed to shield ratepayers from rising utility costs tied to expanding energy demand. At the same time, the State Board of Elections is requesting $60 million from lawmakers for a major statewide election system overhaul. Forecasters are also predicting a below-average Atlantic hurricane season this year, though officials continue urging residents to prepare ahead of the summer. Mitch Kokai from the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss several major cases before the North Carolina Supreme Court, including disputes over Currituck County taxes, cannabis odor regulations, and Duke Energy rates. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein has unveiled a new statewide economic development plan.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina officials are taking legal action to reclaim the failed VinFast factory site after the company’s highly anticipated project stalled, raising new questions about economic development incentives and accountability. Meanwhile, Memorial Day travelers in North Carolina are seeing high prices at the gas pump. Mitch Kokai from the John Locke Foundation joins the program to discuss a judge approving an agreement between Republicans and the State Board of Elections tied to removing noncitizens from voter rolls. Plus, a new survey finds nearly half of Americans do not know the true reason Memorial Day is observed.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina lawmakers are advancing a major slate of constitutional amendments through the House, including proposals focused on limiting taxes and government growth. Debate on the House floor also centered around levy limits and broader property tax reform efforts as Republicans continue pushing long-term tax restraint measures. Meanwhile, the House voted to override Governor Josh Stein’s veto of the federal school choice tax credit bill, keeping the legislation alive as it heads to the Senate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The North Carolina House is preparing for major votes on proposed constitutional amendments aimed at limiting both income and property taxes, setting up high-profile fiscal debates in Raleigh. A House committee has also approved a move that would make the State Board of Education an elected body rather than appointed. Meanwhile, Governor Josh Stein has signed an executive order focused on tackling the state’s growing housing affordability crisis. On the economic front, global instability is raising concerns about disruptions to the fertilizer supply chain, which could impact North Carolina agriculture. Lawmakers are expected to take up several major measures during a busy day at the General Assembly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A stronger-than-expected revenue forecast is giving Republican lawmakers new momentum in their push for additional tax cuts in North Carolina. Meanwhile, a man is facing a federal indictment in North Carolina over alleged Facebook threats targeting President Donald Trump. In agriculture policy, senators have filed a proposed right-to-farm constitutional amendment, aiming to strengthen protections for farmers and agricultural operations. At the same time, NCInnovation is weighing a more private future amid threats that lawmakers could claw back part of its public endowment funding. Lawmakers are also moving closer to approving a constitutional amendment that would cap North Carolina’s income tax rate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The North Carolina Supreme Court has declined to rehear the long-running Leandro education funding case, effectively closing the door on another round of legal arguments in the decades-old dispute. Meanwhile, applications for $221 million in USDA Hurricane Helene relief funding have been extended through June 12 to give more farmers and landowners time to apply. Senate Republicans are also advancing a proposed right-to-work constitutional amendment, reigniting debate over labor policy in the state. In financial education news, the State Treasurer is rolling out new internships and student clubs aimed at boosting financial literacy. Lawmakers are also moving forward with a K-12 funding formula study and an “education wallet” pilot program through the Senate.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

New results from the May Carolina Journal Poll provide a broad snapshot of North Carolina politics, including voter views on the direction of the state and country, along with job approval ratings for President Donald Trump and Governor Josh Stein. The poll also measures the generic ballot for the General Assembly and offers an updated look at the high-profile U.S. Senate race between Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley. Other findings focus on voter opinions regarding property tax reform, Certificate-of-Need laws, Opportunity Scholarships, and North Carolina liquor laws. Meanwhile, the Senate health committee has advanced a targeted repeal of portions of the state’s CON law.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Senate Republicans are proposing a constitutional amendment to lower North Carolina’s income tax cap to 3.5%, continuing the push for long-term tax reductions. At the same time, new data shows Pitt and Orange counties have some of the least affordable energy prices in the state, raising concerns over utility costs. In congressional politics, ratings in North Carolina’s 11th District are shifting toward Democrats amid an ethics probe involving Congressman Chuck Edwards. Lawmakers are also revisiting the concept of a property tax levy limit as debate over local taxes intensifies. Meanwhile, the Senate Majority PAC has announced a $31.4 million investment backing Roy Cooper’s Senate campaign, signaling how competitive the race is expected to become.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

North Carolina House and Senate leaders have announced a new state budget framework, outlining agreements on key issues after months of negotiations and stalemate. Meanwhile, renewed scrutiny is falling on COVID-era prison releases under former Governor Roy Cooper, with lawmakers and critics raising fresh public safety concerns. In redistricting news, challengers have dropped their case against two northeastern North Carolina Senate districts, ending another legal fight over legislative maps. Separately, an investigation in Pilot Mountain has led to the indictment of the town’s former manager, adding to a growing list of local government accountability cases.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

State Auditor Dave Boliek is continuing to investigate soaring autism therapy costs amid growing concerns about potential Medicaid fraud and abuse. In politics, new NRCC polling shows Republican Laurie Buckhout and Democrat Don Davis locked in a dead heat in one of the state’s most competitive congressional races. A new study also finds cellphone bans in schools are producing slow but measurable improvements in student behavior and learning. Meanwhile, a court has rejected key Trump tariff claims while dismissing challenges brought by North Carolina and several other states. Lawmakers are also preparing for another busy day at the General Assembly.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Former FBI Director James Comey will no longer appear in federal court in Greenville today, delaying another step in the high-profile North Carolina case. At the legislature, a bipartisan proposal is targeting North Carolina’s growing data center tax incentives as AI expansion accelerates statewide. Lawmakers are also proposing a new $50 million affordable housing loan fund aimed at boosting housing development and accessibility. In education litigation, Leandro plaintiffs are citing two key issues as they seek a rehearing from the North Carolina Supreme Court in the decades-long school funding case.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Charlotte Mayor Vi Lyles has announced she will resign just months after winning reelection in a landslide victory, creating a major shakeup in North Carolina’s largest city. In education news, North Carolina teachers say student discipline issues are now their biggest workplace challenge, according to new survey data. Meanwhile, state officials are urging residents to prepare during Hurricane Preparedness Week, emphasizing the importance of emergency plans and supplies ahead of the 2026 season. In legal developments, attorneys for Brown are seeking a hearing and formal finding of incompetence in the federal case tied to the Iryna Zarutska murder investigation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The North Carolina Senate has passed a bill to delay property tax reappraisals, while also considering a proposal to shift more energy costs to large users and encourage on-site power generation. Charlotte is set to make history as the first U.S. city to host the 2027 Military World Games, bringing international attention and economic impact. In eastern North Carolina, Rocky Mount is reporting progress on its financial recovery, though lawmakers are advancing a bill that would limit the city’s use of utility revenues, keeping state oversight in focus.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Republican senators are renewing their push for zero-based budgeting, aiming to reset state spending and require agencies to justify expenses from the ground up. In politics, Democrats are targeting a full sweep of Mecklenburg County’s 13 House seats, while a new poll shows Roy Cooper holding a 9-point lead over Michael Whatley in the U.S. Senate race. In federal court, a supporter of “ballot selfies” is making a case at the 4th Circuit challenging North Carolina’s ban, continuing the legal fight over election laws. Meanwhile, a busy day is expected at the General Assembly, with multiple key issues on the agenda.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.