Overriding Vetoes

On Wednesday, January 4, the governor called a special session, which lasted well after midnight and into the next morning. We successfully vetoed the Dues Check Off Benefit, ending the state government’s ability to deduct NCAE membership dues directly from public school employees’ paychecks. The government should not be involved in collecting membership dues for a private organization, a sentiment that is also shared by nearly half of North Carolina voters according to a May 2011 Civitas Institute Poll.


We also worked hard to override the governor’s veto of the Racial Justice Act but in the end, referred the matter to committee. This law is being abused by death-row inmates and their attorneys. I expect we will bring up the veto override again this spring.


The Joint Legislative Economic Development and Global Engagement Oversight Committee met last week during which we discussed the current economic status of the state and how the state could continue to improve economically. My position is that the state should continue to reduce taxes on businesses and consumers while reducing government red tape. In other words, our state should become more business and job "friendly". 


We will continue to work to improve the business climate to encourage job growth in our state.  


Please feel free to contact me at anytime with your questions or input.