South Raleigh News

Today, Governor Roy Cooper called on Republican legislators to prioritize funding for Western North Carolina's recovery over allocating taxpayer money to private school vouchers. The state faces a potential budget shortfall due to tax cuts advocated by Republican leadership, while legislators consider directing $463 million to private schools.

Governor Cooper emphasized the severity of Hurricane Helene's impact, describing it as "the most devastating storm our state has ever seen." He urged lawmakers to invest in recovery efforts rather than private school vouchers. The hurricane caused $53 billion in damages, significantly surpassing the costs of previous storms like Hurricane Florence.

The expansion of private school vouchers could adversely affect rural counties in Western North Carolina, where public schools are vital. Many counties have limited access to private education, with some having no participating schools in the voucher program.

Republican lawmakers plan to override Governor Cooper’s veto of House Bill 10, which allocates funds for unregulated private school vouchers. The Office of State Budget and Management predicts a budget shortfall due to tax cuts and increased costs for public services.

In October, Governor Cooper proposed a $3.9 billion budget package for rebuilding infrastructure and communities affected by the storm. However, the legislature did not pass this proposal.

Governor Cooper criticized the lack of accountability in the voucher program, noting that it benefits wealthier families without requiring schools to meet certain standards or serve all students equally.

Since Hurricane Helene struck North Carolina, Governor Cooper has visited 15 affected counties and declared 2024 as the Year of Public Schools. He continues advocating for investments in education across the state.