KTS Strategies brings years of experience providing clients in a diverse range of industries with comprehensive policy and advocacy advice before federal, state, and local agencies. In North Carolina, we advise local municipalities, corporate transportation entities, nonprofit organizations, statewide associations, government vendors, and Fortune 500 companies before the North Carolina General Assembly and executive branch.
Below is an update on the activity at the NC General Assembly this week.
Budget Update
Legislators did not hold a vote on the budget this week. The House and Senate have agreed on major budget items including tax cuts and raises for state employees. The sticking point between the two chambers continues to be whether to include a proposal that would authorize opening additional casinos and would legalize and regulate video lottery terminals (VLTs) in the state. As reported by the News & Observer, Speaker Moore (R-Cleveland) said casinos “are the only thing holding up the budget now.” Moore was also quoted saying he does not believe that the House can pass a budget that includes gaming and he will not do so without support from a majority of House Republicans. Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) has said he is not interested in voting on a budget that does not include gaming. The chamber leaders are working to reach a compromise and plan to hold a final budget vote next Wednesday, September 20th.
Elections Bill
A proposed committee substitute (PCS) for S749, No Partisan Advantage in Elections, was approved by the House Rules Committee this week. This bill would make changes to the structure of both state and county boards of elections. It would increase the number of members on the State Board of Elections from 5 to 8 and decrease the number of members on each of the 100 county boards of elections from 5 to 4, with all appointments to be made by the General Assembly instead of the Governor. The House has calendared the PCS for a vote next Tuesday, September 19th.
