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 st...

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 mark...

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.

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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 Da...

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.

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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 succes...

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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 spirit...

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...

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.

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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 cr...

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 discus...

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 de...

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.

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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...

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.

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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 stabil...

General Assembly updates, incentive programs, budget framework and more on Monday's Carolina Journal News Hour.

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Updates on Decarlos Brown, Helene relief and funding, rising utility rates and more on the Carolina Journal News Hour

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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...

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 d...

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...

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.<...

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.

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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 test...

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...

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 Ra...

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 ne...

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.

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 i...

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 th...

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...

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.

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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.

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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 me...