Dear Neighbor, I am delighted to bring you the latest insights and happenings from the heart of Onslow County. In this edition, we're excited to share updates on the initiatives that are shaping the future of our community. The General Assembly has been hard at work, passing legislation (including the state budget) and addressing the critical needs of our constituents. We remain committed to representing your interests and ensuring that our community continues to thrive. Thank you for your continued support. Please do not hesitate to reach out should you need any assistance. My office is here as a resource to serve you, and I look forward to working together to make Onslow County an even better place to live, work, and raise a family. At your service, Michael Lazzara North Carolina Senator
Celebrating Constitution Day
On September 17, we celebrated the anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution — the document that has been the bedrock of our republic for over two centuries. We must continue coming together as a free people, committed to protecting the rights and liberties of our fellow citizens.
New Home for USO Jacksonville
After two years, the USO in Jacksonville has finally relocated to its new building! The old downtown location, built during World War II, was closed in 2021 due to safety concerns, and the new facility is conveniently situated on base at Camp Lejeune, bringing it closer to our active-duty Marines. They worked hard to preserve the history and legacy of the old building in their new home, and their mission remains the same as they provide comfort and resources to our active-duty service members. The new space includes kids' play areas, quiet rooms, lounge areas, and multiple snack bars — remaining an important connector to build relationships and resiliency amongst our servicemembers. READ MORE >>>
SB 189: Combatting Fentanyl Abuse
At the end of September, the North Carolina General Assembly ratified Senate Bill 189, which I sponsored, to curb the abuse of fentanyl – a synthetic opioid that is up to 100 times stronger than morphine and has emerged as a deadly force in the ongoing battle against drug overdose. Eight North Carolinians die every day at the expense of fentanyl. I’m grateful that the Governor finally signed this bill into law – as we cannot wait any longer to take action. This critical legislation combats the rise of fentanyl through the enforcement of strict regulations, targeted law enforcement efforts, and the implementation of harm reduction strategies – establishing a formidable defense that will enhance public safety. Our new Law increases the fines for trafficking controlled substances like fentanyl and introduces new criminal offenses that specifically target those who distribute certain substances resulting in death, ensuring that individuals responsible for fatal outcomes face more severe penalties. Recognizing the importance of encouraging individuals to seek help, the bill expands limited immunity for the possession of small amounts of fentanyl. This provision offers protection from prosecution, empowering individuals to come forward and access the assistance they need without the fear of legal consequences. Additionally, this law establishes a dedicated Task Force to bring together a team of experts that will enhance law enforcement efforts in combating the illegal manufacturing, importation, and distribution of fentanyl and heroin. By promoting a coordinated and strategic approach, the law aims to effectively confront the crisis at its core. READ MORE >>>
Lazzara's Student Search Policy Passed as Part of State Budget
The State Budget (HB 259) included a key provision aimed to protect the safety of students in North Carolina schools. The text came directly from Senate Bill 90, which I originally filed and sponsored. Every student in North Carolina should feel safe in their learning environment. This common-sense provision ensures that when searches of a student’s person are required, they are conducted in a safe, secure, and appropriate manner by a school official of the same sex. READ MORE >>>
Coastal Carolina Community College
The 2023 state budget delivers a $20 million investment in Coastal Carolina Community College, to pave the way for new and improved facilities that will better serve students and our community. Short-term workforce training remains one of the college’s most successful programs and this funding underscores the importance of focusing on these trades and vocational areas like welding, automotive technology, and powerline technicians. I'm proud to have supported this funding and remain committed to ensuring our community has access to quality education resources for all to enjoy. READ MORE >>>
Legislative Update: We Have a State Budget!
Our fiscally conservative state budget provides a measured approach to fighting inflation while making critical investments in education, economic development, and infrastructure. This spending plan continues on our successful formula of low taxes, responsible spending, and reasonable regulations. Local projects receiving funding from the state budget include:
$20,000,000 to Onslow County for Landfill Expansion
$20,000,000 to the Town of Surf City for water & sewer infrastructure
$2,000,000 to the City of Jacksonville for a New Fire Ladder Truck
$1,200,000 to Onslow Memorial Hospital for the Crisis Program
$3,500,000 to One Place for the Child Advocacy Center
$5,000,000 to New River YMCA for the Aquatic Partnership
$100,000 to the Town of Holly Ridge for public programming
$4,000,000 to the Museum of the Marine for public programming
$20,000,000 to Coastal Carolina Community College for a new facility
$3,000,000 to the Town of Swansboro for an emergency operations center
$650,000 for the Family Court of Onslow County
$100,000 to Boys and Girls Club for public support
$200,000 to the Town of Swansboro for a Veterans Memorial
$5,000,000 to the Onslow Water and Sewer Authority for capital improvements
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