North Carolina Senate Advances Controversial Bills Amid Hurricane Relief Critics
In a contentious session, the North Carolina Senate passed two bills that have drawn ire from Democrats, who assert that legislators are prioritizing political maneuvers and private school funding over vital hurricane relief. Senate Bill 382 allocates $227 million for Hurricane Helene recovery while enacting numerous amendments that undermine the executive branch’s power, particularly targeting incoming positions held by Democrats after their recent electoral victory.
With a 30-19 vote, Senate Bill 382 received approval amidst protests, with dissenters voicing concerns over the bill’s provisions for transitioning control of state elections and utility boards to Republican officials. Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper now faces the choice of signing, vetoing, or allowing the bill to pass without his signature.
Additionally, the Senate voted to override a previous veto on House Bill 10, expanding private-school tuition vouchers by $463.5 million next year. Critics, including Democrats like Sen. Jay Chaudhuri, highlighted that while funding for affluent families continues to increase, the necessary support for hurricane victims remains insufficient. They contend that significant relief for small businesses affected by Helene is notably absent.
Key GOP leaders argued that the election reforms proposed in SB 382 are essential for future electoral integrity, despite past failures to secure similar controls. Senate leader Phil Berger defended the legislative priorities, citing the longstanding focus on voucher expansions as vital commitments made to GOP supporters.
Democrats decried the move as a blatant power grab. Incoming officials voiced their alarm over the implications for democracy and governance, underscoring the bill’s potential to disenfranchise voters and limit accountability. As the session concludes, observers expect further debate, especially with the upcoming change in legislative dynamics and the approach of new sessions.
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