Governor Josh Stein has taken decisive action on four legislative bills, vetoing three and signing one into law. The bills in question are Senate Bill 50, Senate Bill 153, House Bill 318, and House Bill 126.
In his statement regarding the veto of Senate Bill 50, Governor Stein expressed concerns about public safety: “This bill makes North Carolinians less safe and undermines responsible gun ownership. Therefore, I am vetoing it.” He highlighted that the bill’s provisions to lower the age for concealed carry permits from 21 to 18 years old without training requirements could pose dangers and complicate law enforcement efforts.
Senate Bill 153 was also vetoed by Governor Stein due to safety concerns. He stated, “At a time when our law enforcement is already stretched thin, this bill takes state law enforcement officers away from their existing state duties and forces them to act as federal immigration agents.” The governor noted that current laws already prevent individuals without lawful immigration status from accessing certain benefits.
House Bill 318 faced a veto as well because of constitutional issues. Governor Stein remarked, “I am vetoing House Bill 318 because it is unconstitutional.” He acknowledged the bill’s intent to require sheriffs to contact federal immigration authorities but opposed its provision for detaining individuals beyond their release time based solely on suspected immigration violations.
Support for Governor Stein’s decisions came from various quarters. Orange County Sheriff Charles Blackwood praised the veto of Senate Bill 50: “I’m pleased to see that Governor Stein has vetoed this bill and hope common sense prevails.” Similarly, Durham County Sheriff Clarence Birkhead commended the decision: “The Governor puts public safety first.”
Guilford County Sheriff Danny H. Rogers supported the vetoes of both Senate Bill 153 and House Bill 318: “The Guilford County Sheriff’s Office is committed to enhancing the quality of life for all community members.” Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough also backed these actions: “At a time when constitutional and due process rights are under attack, we must say something and stand up.”
Experts such as Kami Chavis, Professor of Law, commented on House Bill 318’s potential unconstitutionality: “This bill is problematic and likely unconstitutional.” Pender Sharp, a Wilson County farmer, echoed support for the governor’s stance against legislation perceived as promoting hate.
Dr. Karen Smith emphasized potential health implications linked with Senate Bill 153: “Senate Bill 153 could create significant public health challenges.”
House Bill 126 was signed into law by Governor Stein without further comment provided in this release.
