I hope you and your family are enjoying the peak of summer! From the rolling shores of our coastline to the welcoming streets of our towns, every corner of Onslow County is a place worth exploring. Over the years, I have had the honor of meeting many of you, hearing your stories, and witnessing firsthand the resilience and strength that characterizes our community. I am constantly reminded of the privilege it is to serve as your State Senator and I am grateful that you entrust me with this responsibility. We have been working diligently and have made significant strides in the General Assembly to override the Governor's vetoes, strategically plan investments in our state budget, and pass practical legislation that will enhance our communities. Take a look at the newsletter below for more updates, and as always, please do not hesitate to reach out to my office should you need any assistance. Thank you for your continued support and prayers. At your service, Michael Lazzara North Carolina Senator
NEWS: VETO of Parents Bill of Rights
Governor Cooper vetoed the Parents Bill of Rights (SB 49) — a bill that I co-sponsored to ensure parents have appropriate involvement in their child’s educational experience. Parents know what’s best for their children, not some politician in the Executive Mansion. Our bill encourages collaboration, promotes transparency, and keeps classrooms focused on educating, not indoctrinating. We look forward to overriding this veto and others promptly.
Balancing Maritime Safety and Whale Conservation
Boaters, harbor pilots, and business owners have been hard at work fighting against a proposed rule from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) which would require vessels 35 to 65 feet in length to maintain a speed of roughly 11.5 mph when in waters inhabited by North Atlantic Right Whales. I am a firm believer that public policy solutions must be based on evidence, not political theory or what simply sounds like a good idea. We all want to save whales, but the proposed rule from NOAA is the wrong way to do it. Their proposal will pose safety risks for commercial vessels, threaten up to 340,000 American jobs, and negatively impact nearly $84 billion in economic contributions. Based on NOAA’s own data, the likelihood of a recreational vessel striking a right whale is less than one in a million, with boats under 65’ accounting for only five whale strikes since 2008. I’m thankful for the partnership and support of Congressman Greg Murphy, MD in fighting for North Carolina mariners by advocating against NOAA’s proposal. We know that small boat operators need flexibility to maintain their safety and that limiting a vessel’s speed can have devastating consequences. We will stand together to both protect the marine environment and ensure maritime commerce moves safely and efficiently. READ MORE >>>
Carolina Journal Op-Ed
On average, eight North Carolinians die every day at the expense of fentanyl. We must get drugs off the street before they end up in the hands of our children. My legislation takes significant steps forward in our efforts to combat the fentanyl crisis, safeguard our communities, and offer support and solutions to those affected by this devastating epidemic. We can’t let more North Carolinians die because of this poison. The time to act is now, and I strongly urge my colleagues in the NC House of Representatives to pass this important legislation and send it to the Governor for his signature. We cannot wait another day longer. READ MORE >>>
NC Ranked #1 Best State for Business
For the 2nd year in a row, North Carolina has been recognized by CNBC as the #1 Best State for Business. This is evidence that our pro-business, pro-growth policies are working. We will continue our efforts to ensure NC has the best economy, education system, and workforce.
Legislative Update
We’re continuing to stay busy at the NC General Assembly, meeting with constituents and various groups as we continue to address critical issues that affect our community.
Our session has been exceptionally fruitful thus far, with significant accomplishments having been made. Since our last newsletter, we have had the following bills which we've sponsored become law:
BECAME LAW:
SB 171: Department of Public Safety Agency Bill.
SB 246: Property Owners Protection Act.
In Memory of Brock Ridge
Earlier this month, the heart of Onslow County became heavy as we said goodbye to our dear friend Brock Ridge. This is a significant loss in our community, as Brock played an instrumental role in so many lives. He served as a teacher, administrator, and dedicated member of the Onslow County Board of Education. Beyond his role as an educator, he was a beacon of inspiration and a compassionate leader who tirelessly advocated for the betterment of our schools and the well-being of every child. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time and I trust that his memory will continue to inspire us as we carry forward his passion for education and community service. READ MORE >>>
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