North Carolina General Assembly Passes Controversial Disaster Relief Legislation
In a whirlwind session, the North Carolina General Assembly swiftly passed Senate Bill 382, providing $227 million in disaster relief for western North Carolina within 24 hours. However, the legislation’s significant changes to governance have sparked heated debates among lawmakers and protestors alike.
The bill strips Governor Roy Cooper of direct oversight of the State Board of Elections, transferring authority to the state auditor, a position expected to be filled by Republican Dave Boliek in January. Additionally, the state superintendent of public instruction, soon to be a Democrat, loses the power to appeal charter school decisions amid other educational restructuring measures.
Democrats and activists rallied against the bill’s provisions, which they perceive as a clear power grab ahead of Cooper’s likely veto. They expressed their frustrations during the Senate’s discussions, leading to multiple disruptions that prompted Senate President Mark Robinson to clear the public gallery.
Democratic Senators voiced strong opposition, with Sen. Lisa Grafstein likening the changes to a violation of constitutional duties. Meanwhile, Republican leaders, including Senate Majority Leader Phil Berger, defended the bill, arguing it aims to eliminate perceived political interference in election oversight.
The House first approved the measure with a 63-46 vote, followed by the Senate’s passage of 30-19. The legislation also eliminates the positions of two Democrat judges, creating new Republican-appointed judgeships.
While Robinson has not indicated plans to sign the bill as acting governor while Cooper is out of state, there is speculation of an override when the General Assembly reconvenes in December. The unfolding political landscape suggests intense scrutiny and opposition will continue as the state navigates these controversial changes amidst ongoing disaster recovery efforts.
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