North Carolina Senate Overturns Governor’s Veto on Controversial Legislation
RALEIGH, NC – In a significant political maneuver, the North Carolina Senate voted 30-19 on Wednesday to override Governor Roy Cooper’s veto of House Bill 10 (HB 10), following a similar decision by the House the previous day. This controversial legislation, passed by the General Assembly in September, aims to fully fund Opportunity Scholarships, enforce cooperation between sheriffs and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and make various budget adjustments.
Under HB 10, sheriffs are mandated to notify ICE 48 hours in advance before releasing individuals charged with violent crimes or misdemeanors, ensuring tighter immigration enforcement. Senate Judiciary Committee Chairs Sen. Danny Earl Britt, Jr., Sen. Warren Daniel, and Sen. Buck Newton heralded the bill as a vital step toward enhancing public safety and securing U.S. borders.
The bill also allocates over $463 million to fund Opportunity Scholarships, which provide state-funded vouchers for private education to families. After a summer of uncertainty due to lack of funding, approximately 55,000 students are awaiting the scholarships. The October application surge, which reached 72,000 submissions, underscored high demand for school choice options in North Carolina.
Senate Education Committee Chairs, Sen. Amy Galey and Sen. Michael Lee, criticized Cooper for limiting educational choices and emphasized their commitment to expanding school options for families. Additionally, funds are set aside for Education Savings Accounts (ESAs), community college enrollment growth, and K-12 education enhancements.
Former North Carolina legislator Marcus Brandon voiced his support for the bill and urged bipartisan collaboration toward a robust public education system. Cooper, meanwhile, has urged legislators to prioritize hurricane relief over school funding, framing the decision as a false dilemma. The recent developments signal a notable shift in North Carolina’s education and immigration policies amid a charged political climate.
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