The Onslow Observer: Veto Overrides, Military Support, & More...

Dear Neighbor,

It’s been a busy few weeks, both here in Onslow County and in Raleigh. In the Senate, we’ve been hard at work delivering results that matter — from overriding Governor Stein’s vetoes to moving forward bills that protect public safety, cut red tape, and support our military families.

I’m especially proud that North Carolina has once again been named the #1 State for Business. That doesn’t happen by accident — it’s the result of years of steady, conservative leadership that keeps our state growing and creates opportunities for families.

I hope you’ll take a moment to read through this month’s updates. It’s an honor to serve you, and as always, my office is here to help you if we can be of any assistance navigating state government.

At your service,

Michael Lazzara

North Carolina Senator

VETO OVERRIDE VOTES

We had a historic week in the NC Senate — overriding 12 of Governor Stein’s vetoes — protecting freedom, safety, and your wallet.

I was proud to vote YES on:



SB 50 – Freedom to Carry NC

SB 153 – NC Border Protection Act

SB 227 – End K-12 DEI

SB 254 – Charter School Changes

️ SB 266 – Power Bill Reduction Act

SB 416 – Personal Privacy Protection Act

SB 558 – End Higher-Ed DEI

HB 193 – Firearm Law Revisions

HB 318 – Criminal Illegal Alien Enforcement Act

HB 402 – Limit Costly Rules

HB 549 – Clarify State Auditor Powers

HB 805 – Prevent Sexual Exploitation of Women & Minors

These common-sense wins strengthen 2nd Amendment rights, secure our borders, empower parents, slash red tape, and cut energy costs for families.

North Carolina asked for action — and our Republican majority delivered.

PROTECTING PROPERTY RIGHTS OF NORTH CAROLINA HOMEOWNERS

Last week, the NC General Assembly unanimously passed Senate Bill 55 – the Expedited Removal of Unauthorized Persons Act.

I'm proud to have taken lead on this common-sense measure that empowers law enforcement to remove squatters within hours – so families can reclaim their homes quickly and safely.

SB 55 is now on Governor Stein’s desk — and I’m urging him to sign it without delay. Property rights matter, and this bill delivers the protection North Carolina homeowners deserve.

WE'RE #1 — AGAIN!

For the third time in the last four years, North Carolina is the #1 State for Business — thanks to the strong, conservative leadership in the NC Senate.

We’ve cut taxes, invested in infrastructure, and strengthened workforce training — real results that are delivering more jobs and opportunities for families in Onslow County and across the state.

This is what common-sense, pro-jobs policy looks like in action.

MILITARY & VETERAN SUPPORT ACT

SIGNED INTO LAW!

I’m proud to announce that my bill — the Military & Veterans Support Act (Senate Bill 118) — has passed unanimously in both chambers and was just signed by the Governor!

This legislation reduces fees, expands education access, protects veterans from exploitation, and makes it easier for military families to call North Carolina home.

The NC Senate is advancing our mission to make North Carolina the most military-friendly state in the nation.

DRIVER LICENSE EXTENSIONS

North Carolina drivers now have up to two extra years to legally drive on an expired Class C license — giving folks critical relief while the DMV works through staffing shortages and long backlogs. This new flexibility runs through the end of 2027 and applies to in-state driving only.

I was proud to lead the charge on the authorizing legislation, Senate Bill 391, alongside my fellow Transportation Committee Co-Chairs Bill Rabon and Vickie Sawyer. This was a Senate-led solution focused on cutting red tape, easing the burden on working families, and pushing the DMV toward long-overdue improvements.

This is common-sense leadership that delivers real results for North Carolinians.

MARINE CORPS JROTC AT SOUTHWEST HIGH SCHOOL

As a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, I couldn’t be more proud to see Southwest High School launch a new MCJROTC program right here in Onslow County.

This program will build the next generation of leaders, with discipline and a commitment to service.

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