North Carolina experienced a significant year in 2024, marked by major developments in education, government, and the economy. The state's public schools saw significant changes, including the expansion of school choice, which led to increased public funding for private schools[1]. Additionally, federal child care stabilization funding ended in June, and the federal funding cliff for public schools concluded in September, impacting educational resources[1].

In government and politics, the North Carolina General Assembly concluded its main 2024 work session by overriding Governor Roy Cooper's vetoes and placing a constitutional amendment on the November ballot regarding voting eligibility[2]. The amendment, which clarifies that only U.S. citizens can vote, was approved with bipartisan support. However, disagreements over state employee and teacher raises and funding for private school scholarships remain unresolved.

The state's economy showed resilience, with real GDP expected to increase by 3.5% over the 2023 level, despite the impact of Hurricane Helene in the western part of the state[3]. The hurricane's destruction dampened the state's overall economy in the fourth quarter, particularly affecting small businesses and households without flood insurance.

In community news, significant investments were made in education infrastructure. The state awarded $368 million in needs-based school construction grants to seven school districts, aimed at modernizing facilities and improving safety[4]. These grants will support the construction of new schools and the renovation of existing ones, enhancing access to high-quality learning environments.

Environmental and weather updates included the significant impact of Hurricane Helene, which led to a Federal Major Disaster Declaration for western North Carolina[1]. The state's air quality remained in the Code Green range, with forecasts indicating continued clean conditions[5].

Looking Ahead:
- The North Carolina General Assembly will reconvene for occasional sessions in 2025 to address veto overrides and other matters.
- The state will continue to assess the impact of school choice expansion and federal funding changes on public schools.
- Economic recovery efforts in the western part of the state will be crucial in the coming year, particularly for small businesses and households affected by Hurricane Helene.
- The implementation of the needs-based school construction grants will be a key focus in improving educational infrastructure across the state.

North Carolina has seen a flurry of activity in recent weeks, with significant developments in government, economy, and community news.

Attorney General Josh Stein has been at the forefront of several key initiatives. On December 12, he honored Western North Carolinians with Dogwood Awards, recognizing their contributions to the community[1]. Additionally, Stein urged the legislature to put aside petty politics and step up for Western North Carolina, emphasizing the need for cooperation and support for the region[1].

In economic news, North Carolina is expected to see a 3.5% increase in real GDP over 2023, with 12 out of 15 economic sectors anticipated to grow during 2024[3]. The sectors with the strongest anticipated growth rates include agriculture, mining, retail trade, construction, and educational and health services. The state is also expected to add 68,100 net jobs by year’s end, with education and health services and hospitality and leisure services leading the way[3].

The North Carolina General Assembly concluded its main 2024 work session in June, overriding Governor Roy Cooper's recent vetoes and placing a constitutional amendment on the November ballot about voting eligibility[2]. However, key issues such as state employee and teacher raises and funding for private school scholarships remain unresolved.

In community news, the state is still recovering from the impact of Hurricane Helene, which caused significant destruction in Western North Carolina. The lack of flood insurance in the region is expected to delay the rebuilding process and put a burden on small businesses and households[3].

Looking Ahead:
- The North Carolina General Assembly will reconvene for occasional sessions in 2024 to address veto overrides and potentially other matters.
- The state's economic growth is expected to continue, with a focus on rebuilding and recovery efforts in Western North Carolina.
- Attorney General Josh Stein will likely continue to push for policy changes and legal actions, including challenges to the legislature's power grab and efforts to combat health care fraud[1].

North Carolina has seen a flurry of activity across various sectors in recent weeks. Key headlines include Governor Cooper's celebration of over 20,000 new clean energy jobs and more than $24 billion in industry investments, highlighting the state's progress in clean energy[1]. Additionally, the North Carolina General Assembly concluded its main 2024 work session by overriding Governor Cooper's recent vetoes and placing a constitutional amendment on the November ballot about voting eligibility[2].

In government and politics, the General Assembly's actions have been significant, with the override of vetoes on criminal and election law changes, juvenile justice modifications, and NCDOT legislative changes. However, disagreements over state employee and teacher raises and funding for private school scholarships remain unresolved[2].

On the economic front, North Carolina is expected to see real GDP increase by 3.5% over the 2023 level, with 12 out of 15 economic sectors anticipated to grow during 2024[3]. Despite the impact of Hurricane Helene, the state's economy is showing resilience.

In community news, significant investments in education have been made, with $368 million awarded in needs-based school construction grants to seven school districts. These grants will help modernize infrastructure and improve safety and access to specialized learning facilities[4].

Environmental and weather updates include the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which has highlighted the need for safe and modern learning environments. The U.S. Drought Monitor has also noted abnormally dry conditions in eastern North Carolina, with a small portion experiencing moderate drought conditions[5].

Looking Ahead:
- The North Carolina General Assembly will reconvene for occasional sessions to address veto overrides and potentially other matters.
- The state's economic growth is expected to continue, with a focus on rebuilding after Hurricane Helene.
- The upcoming 2024 elections will include a constitutional amendment on voting eligibility, which could have significant implications for the state's electoral landscape.

North Carolina has seen a flurry of recent developments across various sectors. The state's economic landscape is expected to grow, with real GDP anticipated to increase by 3.5% over the 2023 level, despite the impact of Hurricane Helene on the western part of the state[3]. This growth is part of a broader trend, marking the fourth year of economic expansion since the COVID-19 pandemic recession.

In government and politics, the North Carolina General Assembly concluded its main 2024 work session by overriding Governor Roy Cooper's recent vetoes, including changes to criminal and election laws, juvenile justice modifications, and NCDOT legislative changes[2]. However, key issues such as state employee and teacher raises and funding for private school scholarships remain unresolved.

On the education front, significant investments have been made in school infrastructure. Seven school districts will share more than $360 million in new state lottery-funded grant awards for school construction and renovation projects, aimed at providing high-quality learning environments[4].

In community news, a Charlotte-Mecklenburg teacher was recently surprised with the National Milken Educator Award, highlighting the state's commitment to recognizing and rewarding exceptional educators[1]. Additionally, the state has made strides in public safety, with Commissioner Causey honoring 41 Criminal Investigations Division employees with a new Hurricane Helene response award[1].

Environmental and weather updates include the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which has emphasized the need for safe and modern learning environments. The state has also seen efforts to promote clean energy, with Governor Cooper celebrating over 20,000 new clean energy jobs and more than $24 billion in industry investments[1].

Looking Ahead:
- The state's economic growth is expected to continue, with 12 out of 15 economic sectors anticipated to grow during 2024[3].
- The General Assembly will reconvene for occasional sessions to address veto overrides and potentially other matters[2].
- Ongoing efforts in education and infrastructure development are expected to continue, with a focus on improving learning environments and supporting student access to advanced coursework and career and technical education programs[4].
- Environmental initiatives, such as the promotion of clean energy, will remain a priority, with Governor Cooper's administration continuing to invest in sustainable energy solutions[1].

North Carolina is experiencing a mix of significant developments across various sectors. In government and politics, a partisan power struggle continues to unfold. The state legislature recently overrode Governor Roy Cooper's veto of a hurricane relief bill that includes provisions to limit the power of the executive branch, particularly in appointing election board members and the attorney general's ability to bring lawsuits against the legislature[2].

In economic news, North Carolina is expected to see a 3.5% increase in real GDP over 2023, with 12 out of 15 economic sectors anticipated to grow. The sectors with the strongest anticipated growth rates include agriculture, mining, retail trade, construction, and educational and health services. The state is also expected to add 68,100 net jobs by the end of 2024, with a projected unemployment rate of 3.9%[3].

On the environmental front, the state is recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, which dampened the economy in the western part of the state. The lack of flood insurance in this area is expected to delay the rebuilding process and put a burden on small businesses and households[3].

In other news, Governor Cooper celebrated over 20,000 new clean energy jobs and more than $24 billion in industry investments, highlighting North Carolina's progress on clean energy[1]. Additionally, the Biden-Harris Administration approved and recommended for award digital equity capacity grant applications totaling more than $85.1 million, which will support broadband development in the state[1].

Looking Ahead: The ongoing political power struggle and its implications for voting rights will continue to be a significant story in North Carolina. Additionally, the state's economic growth and recovery from Hurricane Helene will be closely watched. Upcoming events include the implementation of new policies from the state legislature and the continued development of clean energy initiatives.

North Carolina has seen a mix of significant developments across various sectors in recent months. The state legislature concluded its main 2024 work session by overriding Governor Roy Cooper's vetoes on several bills, including criminal and election law changes, and placing a constitutional amendment on the November ballot about voting eligibility[1]. However, key issues such as state employee and teacher raises and funding for private school scholarships remain unresolved.

On the economic front, North Carolina is expected to add 53,400 net jobs in 2025, marking a 1.1% increase over the December 2024 level, according to the Fourth Quarter 2024 North Carolina Economic Forecast[2]. The state has shown its fourth year of economic growth since the COVID-19 pandemic recession, despite the impact of Hurricane Helene in the western part of the state. The sectors with the strongest anticipated growth rates include agriculture, mining, retail trade, and construction.

In education, $368 million has been awarded in needs-based school construction grants to seven school districts, funded by the state lottery[3]. These grants aim to modernize infrastructure, improve safety, and enhance access to specialized learning facilities such as STEM labs and career and technical education fields.

The state also faced significant weather events, with Hurricane Helene causing destruction in the western part of North Carolina. The 2024 Spring Climate Outlook had predicted above normal temperatures and rainfall for the eastern Carolinas, which was consistent with the El Niño conditions[4].

Looking Ahead, North Carolina is set to continue addressing its budget and policy challenges in the coming year. The state's economic forecast suggests a positive trajectory, but long-term budget sustainability remains a critical issue, as highlighted by The Pew Charitable Trusts' report on tools for sustainable state budgeting[5]. The upcoming legislative sessions will likely focus on resolving the unresolved issues from the 2024 session, including state employee and teacher raises and funding for private school scholarships. Additionally, the impact of Hurricane Helene on the state's economy and infrastructure will continue to be a developing story.

North Carolina has seen a mix of significant developments across various sectors in recent weeks. The state legislature concluded its main 2024 work session by overriding Governor Roy Cooper's vetoes, including a bill that moves power away from newly-elected Democrats and includes a Hurricane Helene relief package[2][1].

In economic news, North Carolina is expected to see a 3.5% increase in real GDP over the 2023 level, despite the impact of Hurricane Helene on the western part of the state. The lack of flood insurance in this region could delay the rebuilding stimulus on the economy[3]. Major business developments include the establishment of new recording and photography studios by the Music Maker Relief Foundation in Fountain, highlighting the impact of music and arts on rural communities[1].

In education, $368 million has been awarded in needs-based school construction grants to seven school districts. These grants will help modernize infrastructure, improve safety, and enhance access to specialized learning facilities[4]. Infrastructure projects include the construction of new high schools in Martin, Sampson, and Swain counties, which will provide better facilities for career and technical education programs.

The state has also been dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which significantly impacted passenger traffic at Asheville airport, reducing it by about 53% compared to the previous year[1]. Environmental concerns include the challenges of insuring homes in a warming world experiencing unprecedented natural disasters. An insurance program is trying a new approach by paying homeowners ahead of time to prepare for such events[1].

Looking Ahead:
- The North Carolina General Assembly will reconvene for occasional sessions to address veto overrides and other matters[2].
- The state will continue to monitor and address the economic and environmental impacts of Hurricane Helene.
- The Audubon's 125th annual Christmas Bird Count will take place through early January, engaging both experienced and aspiring birdwatchers[1].
- The ongoing debate over state employee and teacher raises and funding for private school scholarships remains unresolved and will likely be revisited in future legislative sessions[2].

North Carolina has seen significant developments across various sectors in recent months. The state legislature concluded its main 2024 work session by overriding Governor Roy Cooper's vetoes and placing a constitutional amendment on the November ballot about voting eligibility, though it failed to pass a comprehensive budget-adjustment measure for 2024-25[1].

In economic news, North Carolina is expected to see a 3.5% increase in real GDP over the 2023 level, with 12 out of 15 economic sectors anticipated to grow during 2024. However, Hurricane Helene's destruction in the western part of the state has dampened the overall economy in the fourth quarter[2].

On the business front, Governor Cooper announced that Amgen will expand in Wake County, creating 370 jobs, and a cabinet manufacturer selected Duplin County for its East Coast operation. Additionally, a copper manufacturer invested $27 million to expand in Stokes County[5].

In community news, the state has made progress in education and infrastructure. The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction reported that Foothills Correctional Institution and Piedmont Correctional Institution were recommended for ACA accreditation[5]. Furthermore, state parks projects were awarded over $7.6 million from the Parks and Recreation Trust Fund[5].

Environmental and weather updates include the impact of Hurricane Helene, which caused significant destruction in the western part of the state. The NWS Climate Prediction Center forecasted slightly increased chances for above normal temperatures through May and increased chances for above normal rainfall this spring across North and South Carolina[3].

Looking Ahead:
- The North Carolina General Assembly will reconvene for occasional sessions to address veto overrides and potentially other matters.
- The state's economic growth is expected to continue, though challenges from Hurricane Helene's aftermath remain.
- Upcoming projects include the reopening of Vance Birthplace State Historic following Hurricane Helene and continued investments in state parks and correctional institutions.

North Carolina is experiencing a mix of challenges and growth across various sectors. The state is currently facing widespread moderate drought, with 93 counties classified as experiencing D1 conditions, according to the North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council[1]. This comes after below-average rainfall in October and November, though recent rains have provided some relief.

In politics, the state legislature has passed a bill that shifts executive power, overriding a veto from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper. The bill, which includes measures for hurricane relief, strips appointment power from offices soon to be held by Democrats and redirects it to Republicans[2].

On the economic front, North Carolina is expected to see its fourth year of economic growth since the COVID-19 pandemic recession. Real GDP is anticipated to increase by 3.5% over the 2023 level, with 12 out of 15 economic sectors expected to grow. The sectors with the strongest anticipated growth rates include agriculture, mining, retail trade, and construction[3].

The state is also recovering from the impacts of Hurricane Helene, which dampened the economy in the western part of the state. The lack of flood insurance in this area could delay the rebuilding stimulus on the economy[3].

Looking ahead, North Carolina is expected to face a La Niña-like pattern, which typically means fewer significant precipitation events and overall drier weather[1]. The state's spring climate outlook suggests increased chances for above-normal temperatures and rainfall[4]. Additionally, the political landscape is set to change with new elected officials being sworn in next month, following the recent legislative power shift[2]. The state's economic growth and recovery efforts will continue to be monitored closely as these developments unfold.

North Carolina has seen significant developments across various sectors in recent days. The state is currently experiencing widespread moderate drought, with 93 counties classified under D1 conditions, according to the North Carolina Drought Management Advisory Council. Despite recent rains, the seasonal outlook suggests a La Niña-like pattern, indicating fewer significant precipitation events and drier weather[1].

In politics, the state legislature passed a bill that shifts executive power, overriding a veto from Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper. This move, which includes stricter deadlines for absentee voting and changes to election administration, cements a Republican legislative supermajority's influence on state government[2].

On the economic front, North Carolina is expected to see its fourth year of economic growth since the COVID-19 pandemic recession. Real GDP is projected to increase by 3.5% over the 2023 level, with 12 out of 15 economic sectors anticipated to grow. The sectors with the strongest anticipated growth rates include agriculture, mining, and retail trade[3].

The state's economic forecast also notes the impact of Hurricane Helene on the western part of North Carolina, which could delay rebuilding efforts due to a lack of flood insurance among businesses and households. Despite this, the state is expected to add 68,100 net jobs by year’s end, with the unemployment rate reaching 3.9%[3].

Looking ahead, North Carolina will likely face challenges related to its drought conditions and the implications of the recent legislative changes. The state's economic growth, while positive, will need to navigate the challenges posed by natural disasters and the shifting political landscape. Upcoming events include the swearing-in of new elected officials and the implementation of the recently passed bill, which will have significant impacts on state governance and election processes. Additionally, the state will need to monitor its environmental conditions closely, especially as it enters the spring season, which is expected to see increased chances for above normal temperatures and rainfall[4].