The NCGA was back in session this week and followed an unusually busy agenda–from overriding eight vetoes to opting North Carolina into a vague and still-unfolding federal education voucher program. Meanwhile, educators across the state are breathing a sigh of relief as the U.S. Department of Education releases withheld federal funds.
North Carolina General Assembly Back in Session
On Hold: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Bills
This week, the Senate and House secured enough votes to override eight of the Governor’s vetoes, with several more overrides still possible–though DEI-related bills SB 227 and SB 558 remain on hold for now.
Veto Overridden and Passed into Law: Cooperation with ICE
One of the overridden bills that will now become law, HB 318 (the “Criminal Illegal Alien Enforcement Act”), requires sheriffs to cooperate with ICE by verifying the immigration status of individuals charged with certain offenses and notifying ICE upon their release. The law heightens fear and uncertainty among immigrant families, which can lead to increased absenteeism in our schools–a key factor that negatively affects student performance and graduation rates.
Veto Overridden and Passed into Law: Book Bans and Library Restrictions
Adding more angst to schools is the veto override and passage of HB 805 (Prevent Sexual Exploitation/Women and Minors). This bill was initially focused on explicit content on pornography websites, and received unanimous bipartisan support. However, late in the game, the Senate added provisions that shifted the bill’s scope dramatically. The legislation now includes requirements for school library transparency and parental book restrictions, expanded rights to opt out of instruction conflicting with religious beliefs, and a redefinition of sex in state law based on biological terms. This new law places added pressure on educators by undermining their professional judgment and creates a hostile environment for LGBTQ+ students through legitimization of exclusionary policies in schools.
Veto Overridden and Passed into Law: Guns in Private Schools
Another bill enacted into law this week via veto override is HB 193 (Firearm Law Revisions), which allows teachers and other volunteers to carry concealed guns on private school campuses. All students deserve safe and affirming spaces to learn. This new legislation will instead lead to an environment of uncertainty and fear in our private schools.
Passed the NCGA and awaiting Gov. Stein’s action: Federal Private School Vouchers in NC
In yet another last-minute and expedited move, HB 87 (the Educational Choice for Children Act) was passed through the General Assembly this week, which would opt-in North Carolina to the federal voucher program. The federal policy’s vague language has left many unanswered questions about its implementation, such as how states officially opt in, which students will be eligible for the scholarships, and how the program’s impact will be evaluated. Supporters of the bill have repeatedly stated that all students, including those in public schools, will be eligible for the funds.
The bill was sent to Governor Stein’s desk on July 29. He has 10 days to sign it, veto it, or take no action–allowing the bill to become law by default. If enacted, this policy could have major consequences for public schools across the country. Without a cap on the federal tax credits issued under the program, public schools could lose critical funding, particularly in low-income and rural areas that rely heavily on federal support. As enrollment declines and budgets shrink, public schools will be forced to do more with less.
Mini-budget and Adjournment
After prolonged negotiations and with the new fiscal year already underway, the General Assembly approved a temporary “mini-budget” this week to keep essential government operations running. HB 125 provides step increases for teachers, principals, and other school staff, but does not include any actual salary raises. It also covers funding adjustments for enrollment growth across public schools, community colleges, and the UNC System, as well as cuts to DPI’s budget. Read more about what’s included here.
Legislators also passed an adjournment resolution outlining their schedule for the remainder of the session. Following this week, legislators will reconvene once a month, beginning on August 26. The resolution limits the matters that may be considered during these sessions to a narrow set of topics, such as veto overrides, appointment confirmations, and disaster recovery. Bills affecting the state budget won’t be considered until April.
Department of Education Releases Withheld Funds
Lawmakers, advocates, and education coalitions nationwide have spoken out after the U.S. The Department of Education withheld nearly $7 billion in federal funds ($169 million for North Carolina), leaving districts scrambling to fill critical funding gaps. Although the department initially released a portion of the funds, it took mounting pressure–including a lawsuit led by North Carolina Attorney General Jeff Jackson and 24 other states–for the full amount to be restored. DPI received notice that the funds would be released this week, provided that the state comply with applicable civil rights laws. The Department also stated it will enforce those requirements and plans to review how grantees use the funds.
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