The North Carolina Senate has approved a $5 billion stopgap funding measure to keep state operations running amid a stalled budget deal. Shrimpers rallied in Raleigh to protest proposed restrictions on inland trawling, a ban the House now says it will not advance. U.S. Senator Thom Tillis has reintroduced legislation to make blocking traffic during protests a federal crime. Meanwhile, a recent party switch has given Republicans a majority edge on the Robeson County Board of Commissioners.

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The North Carolina House has rejected the Senate’s proposed Hurricane Helene relief bill, highlighting continued disagreement over recovery funding. Governor Stein was briefed on security concerns following U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites. The State Board of Elections has unanimously approved a plan to collect missing voter ID numbers. Meanwhile, a court ruling sided with Governor Stein on judicial vacancies but favored lawmakers in the Utilities Commission appointment dispute. The ongoing debate over Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) policies in public schools has now moved to the NC House.

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The North Carolina Senate has approved a $700 million relief package for Hurricane Helene recovery. A veto override vote on HB 318, the Criminal Illegal Alien Enforcement Act, is expected today. Lawmakers have also approved payments for shrimpers impacted by the state’s controversial trawling ban. Wolfspeed has announced a bankruptcy plan that gives control to its creditors. Meanwhile, a legal battle over judicial and utilities commission appointments is heading to a three-judge panel.

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Governor Stein has vetoed two immigration-related bills and a constitutional carry bill, drawing strong political reactions. U.S. Senators Thom Tillis and Ted Budd, along with Congressman Tim Moore, responded to a U.S. military strike on Iran. Meanwhile, the North Carolina legislature is advancing a bill to legally recognize only two sexes. Dangerous heat is forecast to spread across the Carolinas this week, and four political parties have lost recognition in the state as the Green Party gains official status.

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The North Carolina legislature has repealed the state's 2030 carbon reduction goal, advancing major energy reforms to the governor. The Senate has passed the latest version of the NC Farm Act. A new proposal would compensate shrimp trawlers who lose access to inland waters, and a foster care reform bill has passed unanimously. Meanwhile, Wolfspeed appears headed for bankruptcy, and under a new law, North Carolina will recognize occupational licenses from neighboring states.

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State Treasurer Brad Briner says a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling could impact North Carolina’s legal battle over the State Health Plan. Budget talks between the state House and Senate have stalled, delaying broader fiscal action. However, relief funding tied to Hurricane Helene is expected to move forward despite the budget impasse. Meanwhile, the NCInnovation audit committee has flagged errors and postponed final approval of its IRS filing. A bill preventing political discrimination in the distribution of disaster aid is now headed to the governor’s desk.

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Justice Allison Riggs has been officially sworn in for a new term on the North Carolina Supreme Court. Meanwhile, state judges ruled in favor of GOP legislative leaders over Governor Stein in a dispute regarding the Highway Patrol commander. A Democratic lawmaker has apologized after sharing a protest image that appeared to depict a beheaded President Trump. Also, North Carolina fishermen are pushing back against a Senate proposal to restrict shrimp trawling, arguing it threatens their livelihoods.

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Aid is being directed to homeowners and businesses in western North Carolina following recent hardships. A new study ranks Charlotte’s DMV as the worst in the nation, drawing sharp criticism. Meanwhile, a Democratic state representative is under fire over a controversial social media post. A federal trial this week will focus on North Carolina’s election maps, potentially impacting future redistricting.

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A Wake County Democrat is under fire for sharing an image depicting a beheaded President Trump. JetZero has announced plans for a $4.7 billion manufacturing facility in Greensboro, expected to bring major economic benefits. A new state law has established an investment oversight board to manage North Carolina’s public retirement funds. U.S. Senator Ted Budd has introduced the National Prescribed Fire Act of 2025 to improve wildfire prevention. Meanwhile, government oversight officials have requested records concerning UNC-Chapel Hill coronavirus researcher Ralph Baric.

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Lawmakers are proposing a 1% sales tax to fund Charlotte transportation projects, and a new bill would require schools to evaluate the long-term costs of educational technology. Wolfspeed has announced layoffs at its materials factory in Siler City. Meanwhile, the North Carolina Senate has passed new immigration enforcement bills, signaling GOP priorities ahead of the 2026 elections. The week wrapped with a flurry of legislative activity at the General Assembly.

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