North Carolina Legislative Newsletter - July 5, 2016

07.05.2016

Adjournment

The General Assembly adjourned sine die Friday, July 1, which concluded the 2016 short legislative session. The General Assembly will convene for the next long legislative session on January 11, 2017.

Raleigh News & Observer: What NC Lawmakers Did - And Didn't Do - In The Short Session

WRAL: Several High-Profile Bills Left Behind By Lawmakers

Budget

The House took its final vote on the $22.34 billion state budget on Friday. The measure now goes to Governor Pat McCrory.

WRAL: Budget, corrections head to governor

Raleigh News & Observer: NC budget compromise: Teacher raises, low college tuition, tax cut

HB 2

On the last day of session, the General Assembly reversed a provision of HB 2 dealing with the right to sue in state court for wrongful termination; however, they left intact the remainder of the controversial law.

WRAL: Lawmakers Reverse Small Piece of HB 2

Coal Ash

Last week the House and Senate approved HB 630 regarding management of coal ash. The bill now goes to the governor.
The measure deals with providing permanent safe drinking water for residents surrounding coal ash impoundments, directs Duke Energy on the excavation of ash at certain sites, and gives authority to the Department of Environmental Quality to make other coal ash pond closure determinations.

WNCN: Controversial coal ash bill heads to McCrory

Education

Achievement School Districts

HB 1080, which would put five low-performing district elementary schools under charter school administration, was approved by the House and Senate last week and sent to the governor.

Associated Press: Achievement School District clears NC General Assembly

Charlotte Observer: Cagle named director of Charlotte-Douglas Airport
WRAL: NC becomes focus of presidential campaign
Raleigh News & Observer: Move municipal elections to even years? NC House wants to consider it
Associated Press: Chasteen, White confirmed to serve on Board of Education

Professionals