South Raleigh News

Today, Governor Roy Cooper vetoed Senate Bill 382, which was titled "Disaster Relief-3/Budget/Various Law Changes." In his statement regarding the veto, Governor Cooper expressed strong disapproval of the bill's provisions.

"This legislation is a sham," said Governor Cooper. He criticized the bill for failing to allocate funds to Western North Carolina and instead shifting money between funds in Raleigh. According to Cooper, the bill misrepresents its purpose by claiming to provide disaster relief while it actually undermines constitutional processes.

Governor Cooper pointed out several issues with SB382. He stated that it removes appointment powers from future governors for key positions such as the Board of Elections, Utilities Commission, and Commander of the NC Highway Patrol. Additionally, he noted that it allows political parties to select appellate judges and interferes with the Attorney General’s efforts to secure lower electric bills for consumers.

Cooper also highlighted that instead of offering small business grants to areas affected by disasters, the bill obstructs extending unemployment benefits for those who have lost jobs due to natural disasters. Furthermore, he accused the legislation of politicizing judicial appointments by removing two elected judges and adding two appointed by the legislature. It also reduces authority from other state officials like the Lieutenant Governor and Superintendent of Public Instruction.