Thank you for taking time to read our latest legislative newsletter. This edition includes recent developments and proposals impacting our state and district. I remain committed to keeping you informed and up-to-date on the legislative process and the consequential decisions affecting our community. I firmly believe that through collaborative efforts and open communication, we can create positive outcomes that will improve the lives of all North Carolina residents. I encourage you to connect with my office – sharing any questions, concerns, or innovative ideas that you may have. Your input and engagement are vital in shaping our future, and I am eager to hear your perspectives. As always, thank you for your continued support and prayers. At your service, Michael Lazzara North Carolina Senator
Memorial Day
Freedom is not free, it takes incredible sacrifice to secure and maintain. On Memorial Day, we reflect on this as we honor the brave men and women who gave their lives, paying the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms. As we return to the busyness of our daily lives, I encourage all of us to reflect on our freedom and its costs every time we see an American Flag flying high in the wind. The heroes who gave it all deserve our continuous gratitude and respect. Semper Fidelis.
Ride for Freedom
Over Memorial Day weekend, I was honored to spend time speaking with the N.C. chapter of Rolling Thunder for their “Ride for Freedom” opening ceremony, held Saturday morning at American Legion Post 265 in Jacksonville. This event is intended to demonstrate and raise awareness of the thousands of Americans who fought for our freedom and remain unaccounted for from all previous wars. Participants ride for those who can’t; our Prisoners of War and Missing in Action. We Will Never Forget.
Visiting with Local Leaders
This month, I was grateful to host several Onslow County commissioners at our legislative office in Raleigh. Led by Chairman Tim Foster and joined by Royce Bennett, Walter Scott, & Mark Price — we discussed a range of interesting topics and emerging issues impacting our community. I am thankful for the relationship between our respective offices, and I look forward to continued partnership as we work to make Onslow County the best place to live, work, and run a business.
National Military Appreciation Month
As a Marine, I am proud to have served alongside some of the most dedicated and courageous individuals in the Armed Forces. During National Military Appreciation Month, I want to express my gratitude to all those who have served and continue to serve our great nation. Your sacrifice, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to duty inspire me every day. Oorah!
MAJOR NEWS: Veto Override
My constituents voted to send me to Raleigh to represent our shared values and to be a voice for the voiceless. I am pleased to report that we have successfully overridden Governor Cooper’s veto of the Care for Women, Children & Families Act — legislation that will save millions of unborn lives and restore the sanctity of human life in North Carolina.
OP-ED: Senate Bill 20 important first step in the pro-life movement
Overriding Gov. Cooper’s veto of the Care for Women & Children Act marks a significant milestone in our collective effort to protect life in North Carolina. By limiting abortions and providing comprehensive support to women and families, we are advancing a culture of life that cherishes the inherent value of every human being. We will continue to work tirelessly, united in our commitment to protecting life. READ MORE >>>
Senate Budget
We recently passed a fiscally conservative State Budget through the Senate — a proposal which will cut taxes on hardworking families and businesses to keep North Carolina’s economy strong. Our Budget plan increases funding for the Strategic Transportation Investments Prioritization Program to help prioritize and fund large transportation projects across the state. It also provides significant funding for contract resurfacing and for the replacement and preservation of bridges. On the Education front, our plan increases starting teacher pay by nearly 11%, expands school choice, and provides almost $70 million to develop and expand community college courses in high-demand career fields. The Budget bill has now gone into negotiations with the House of Representatives, with a final plan coming soon.
Legislative Update
The NC General Assembly has made it past it's self-imposed "crossover deadline," and we have passed the Senate version of the State Budget.
We have had a very productive session this far. Since our last newsletter, we have had the following bills which we've sponsored pass the Senate:
PASSED THE SENATE
SB 90: Searches of Student's Person.
SB 189: Fentanyl Drug Offenses and Related Changes.
SB 200: Onslow County Public Notices.
SB 269: Exempt Certain DOD Child Care Ctrs/Lic. Reqs.
Comments