The Onslow Observer: Passage of the State Budget, Right to Work, & More...

Dear Neighbor,

The N.C. General Assembly has wrapped up one of its most important responsibilities this year by passing a balanced state budget that delivers meaningful investments for Onslow County while continuing North Carolina's tradition of responsible fiscal management.

This budget reflects many of the priorities I've heard from constituents over the past year: supporting our first responders, strengthening our schools and courts, investing in local infrastructure, expanding opportunities for our young people, and continuing to stand behind our military community. I'm proud of what we were able to bring home for Onslow County, and you'll find many of those local investments highlighted in this month's newsletter.

You'll also read about the opening of the Carolina Museum of the Marine, legislation to combat human trafficking, protecting North Carolina's right-to-work laws, and the well-deserved recognition of Major James Capers Jr., whose Medal of Honor reminds us of the extraordinary courage and sacrifice that defines our community.

It is a privilege to represent the people of Onslow County in the North Carolina Senate. Thank you for your continued trust and support. As always, if you need assistance with a state agency or have a question about an issue before the General Assembly, my office is here to help.

At your service,

Michael Lazzara

North Carolina Senator

CELEBRATING AMERICA’S 250TH BIRTHDAY

On America’s 250th birthday, we honored the patriots who declared our independence and the generations of service members, veterans, and military families who have defended our freedom ever since.

May we never take the blessings of liberty for granted. God bless America. 🇺🇸

PASSAGE OF THE 2026 STATE BUDGET

STATE BUDGET NEWS 📰 I am proud to share that the 2026 State Budget includes critical funding aimed directly at improving public safety, infrastructure, education, and youth services right here in Onslow County.

🚒 Public Safety & Emergency Response:

• $220,000 for Hubert Volunteer Fire Department equipment upgrades and replacements.

• $245,000 for Town of Swansboro split to support both the Police and Fire Departments.

• $105,000 to Jacksonville Fire Department for purchasing and/or upgrading water rescue equipment.

• $100,000 to Piney Green Volunteer Fire Department for equipment upgrades and purchases.

• $25,000 to Onslow Amateur Radio Club for a new emergency response trailer and specialized equipment.

• $225,000 to the North Carolina for Military Employment a public-private partnership that assists veterans and transitioning service members find jobs in the state.

🧒 Youth & Community Services:

• $800,000 for Boys & Girls Clubs of Southeastern NC to establish a new teenage learning center in Onslow County, plus an additional $500,000 for a building purchase dedicated to community service activities.

• $100,000 to Sneads Ferry Community Council for vital electrical system upgrades at the community building and event grounds.

• $250,000 to One Place in Jacksonville to advance its mission of preventing child abuse and providing critical support to children and families.

🛣️ Infrastructure & Education:

• $4,000,000 to Albert J. Ellis Airport for capital improvements and access improvements.

• $200,000 for the Town of Richlands to tackle critical local stormwater and drainage needs.

• $100,000 to East Carolina University for a specialized scholarship program assisting Eastern NC students, with priority given to Onslow County students pursuing degrees in Finance and Artificial Intelligence.

⚖️ Strengthening Our Legal & Court Systems:

• 12 new Deputy Clerk positions allocated specifically to Onslow County to improve courthouse efficiency.

• Funding to create District Court 5B solely for Onslow County, which includes funding for a Chief District Court Judge position (effective January 1, 2027).

These line items aren't just numbers on a spreadsheet, they represent safer neighborhoods, better resources for our kids, improved infrastructure, and a more efficient local court system. It is an honor to bring your hard-earned tax dollars back home to work for Onslow County.

CAROLINA MUSEUM OF THE MARINE OFFICIALLY OPEN TO VISITORS

In June, the Carolina Museum of the Marine officially opened its doors to the public in Jacksonville.

It was an honor to join fellow Marines, veterans, community leaders, and supporters for the ribbon cutting of this remarkable museum, more than 25 years in the making.

This museum preserves the stories of service, sacrifice, and courage that define the United States Marine Corps and our community’s connection to Camp Lejeune. I encourage all North Carolinians to make the trip and experience it for themselves.

Children will learn lessons that no textbook alone can teach, veterans will see their service honored, and visitors will leave with a deeper appreciation for the freedoms we enjoy because of those who served.

Semper Fidelis. 🇺🇸

NC SENATE PASSES “RIGHT TO WORK” CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT

I’m proud to have voted in favor of Senate Bill 1082, which puts a constitutional amendment on the November 2026 ballot to ensure that every worker has the right to their employment, without being forced to pay union dues.

2026 NCGOP STATE CONVENTION

Last month, I was honored to represent Onslow County as a delegate at the NCGOP State Convention in Greensboro.

I enjoyed reconnecting with friends and colleagues from around the state and was encouraged by the enthusiasm and commitment of our grassroots activists who are working to elect common-sense conservative leaders up and down the ballot.

Thank you to the convention organizers, volunteers, and everyone who helped make this year’s event a success. Onward to November!

FIGHTING TO END HUMAN TRAFFICKING

Human beings are not for sale. Trafficking continues to be a serious threat in North Carolina — which currently ranks #9 in the nation.

I’m proud to be a primary sponsor of Senate Bill 1007 alongside Sen. Lisa Barnes and Sen. Ted Alexander. This comprehensive legislation strengthens our state’s response to human trafficking by focusing on improving victim identification, supporting survivors, and enhancing coordination between law enforcement, service providers, and state agencies. It also strengthens data sharing and reporting so we can better understand and respond to human trafficking across North Carolina.

This reflects a continued commitment to protecting the most vulnerable and ensuring traffickers are identified, investigated, and prosecuted. I look forward to continuing this important work through the legislative process.

ONSLOW COUNTY'S OWN MAJ. JAMES CAPERS JR., USMC (RET.) AWARDED MEDAL OF HONOR

As a fellow Marine, I could not be more proud to see Onslow County’s own Major James Capers Jr. receive our nation’s highest military honor.

Major Capers’ extraordinary courage, leadership, and sacrifice in service to our country embody the very best of the Marine Corps and the American spirit. His long-overdue Medal of Honor is a fitting tribute to a true warrior and patriot.

Congratulations, Major Capers, and thank you for your service to our nation.

Semper Fidelis.

CONGRATULATIONS, CAROLINA HURRICANES!

It was great to see The Stanley Cup on display at the NC General Assembly!

Congratulations again to the Carolina Hurricanes on bringing hockey's greatest trophy back to North Carolina for the first time in 20 years. What a special moment for our state and for Canes fans everywhere.

Go Canes!