The Onslow Observer: Veteran Benefits, DMV Accountability, & More...
- Sen. Michael Lazzara
- Feb 23
- 3 min read
Dear Neighbor,
With the legislative session in full swing, we’re continuing our work to advance policies that make North Carolina safer, stronger, and more prosperous.
From providing tax relief for disabled veterans to improving DMV accountability, I’m committed to ensuring our state remains the best place to live and work.
This month’s update also highlights important local news, including a new superintendent for Onslow County Schools and a great partnership between MCAS New River and Richlands Elementary.
As always, my office is here to serve you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if I can be of assistance.
At your service,
Michael Lazzara
North Carolina Senator
FREEDOM TO CARRY
Families across North Carolina work hard every day to make ends meet, and we believe you should keep more of what you earn. That’s why the NC General Assembly cut the state income tax rate to 4.25%, effective this year in 2025. Lower taxes mean more opportunities for your family to thrive. Here’s to a brighter future for all North Carolinians in 2025 and beyond!
HEROES' HOMESTEAD ACT
Our veterans put everything on the line for our freedoms, and it’s our duty to make sure they are taken care of when they come home.
The Heroes’ Homestead Act ensures that NC remains the most military-friendly state in the nation by reducing the financial burden on those who have already given so much: raising the property tax homestead exclusion from $45,000 to $76,500 for disabled veterans.
This is more than tax relief — it’s a promise kept.
ACCOUNTABILITY FOR DMV
North Carolinians deserve efficient & accountable DMV services. That’s why I’m proud to sponsor Senate Bill 63, which moves oversight from the Governor’s Office to a nine-member Board of Motor Vehicles.
This is a commonsense step to improve customer service, reduce bureaucracy, and ensure the voices of the people — not politicians — guide decisions that impact every driver in our state.
REDUCING CONCEALED CARRY PERMIT FEES FOR VETERANS
I’m proud to introduce Senate Bill 118, which would reduce concealed carry permit fees for honorably discharged veterans.
These brave men and women have defended our freedoms, and this legislation ensures they can fully exercise their Second Amendment rights with the same discount earned by retired law enforcement personnel.
NEW DRIVER'S ED COMPLETION FORM
The N.C. Department of Public Instruction is rolling out a new, streamlined Driver Education Completion form — aiming to simplify the process for students, parents, and driver education providers across North Carolina. Let’s keep working to make our roads safer and our systems more efficient!
NEW SUPERINTENDENT FOR ONSLOW COUNTY SCHOOLS
Onslow County Schools has named Dr. Christopher Barnes as its new superintendent. A proud graduate of Richlands High and lifelong servant of Onslow County Schools, Dr. Barnes brings decades of experience and deep roots in the community to this important role. We’re excited for the future of our schools under his leadership. Congratulations, Dr. Barnes!
MCAS NEW RIVER "ADOPTS" RICHLANDS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
I’m proud to see Marine Corps Air Station New River adopt Richlands Elementary through the Adopt-A-School program!
As a USMC veteran, I'm confident that this partnership will strengthen our community by fostering values of service and leadership between Marines and students.
Thank you to Lt. Col. Michael Bryant and his team for continuing to make a lasting impact in Onslow County!
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