North Raleigh Today

Governor Josh Stein delivered his inaugural State of the State Address, focusing on recovery efforts in western North Carolina and advocating for investments in various sectors. He urged the General Assembly to expedite the passage of a Helene recovery funding bill, addressing the significant damage caused by the storm.

“We’re talking $60 billion in damages overall– by far the costliest storm to ever hit North Carolina,” said Governor Stein. “That’s too much for those affected to bear themselves. They need our help. People need to get back in their homes. Roads and bridges need to be fixed. Businesses need to keep their doors open and their workers employed. And communities need clean drinking water. No matter where they live, the people of North Carolina need to know that if disaster strikes, we will be there.”

Governor Stein emphasized initiatives aimed at creating opportunities for all residents, including investments in apprenticeships, child care, and targeted tax cuts.

He reaffirmed his commitment to public education by proposing increased starting salaries for teachers, a $4 billion education bond for school repairs, and universal free school breakfast.

In public safety, Governor Stein proposed salary increases for law enforcement recruitment and retention and called for a Fentanyl Control Unit to address drug trafficking issues.

Addressing potential federal Medicaid cuts, he stated: “We do not need to be pulled into those political games. We can create something better, something forward-looking right here in North Carolina... When we all – Republicans and Democrats – come together, that’s when we make a real difference for our people.”