South Raleigh News

Today, Governor Josh Stein, alongside State Budget Director Kristin Walker, unveiled the 2025-2027 budget proposal for North Carolina. The plan emphasizes key investments in various sectors including the economy, families, education, workforce, health care, and public safety.

Governor Stein stated, "North Carolina is strong because our people are strong, and we must work to maintain our strength so that future generations will continue to reap the benefits of our work." He further added that his budget is designed to prioritize kids and families by focusing on job opportunities, education, financial well-being, health, and safety.

The budget aims to bolster the workforce by expanding job opportunities through apprenticeship programs and offering free community college for students pursuing careers in high-demand fields. It also supports individuals reentering the workforce post-incarceration.

To address rising living costs, particularly in housing and child care, the proposal includes measures to strengthen families. This involves expanding child care options and increasing pay for early childhood educators. Additionally, it proposes tax cuts for middle-class families to alleviate financial burdens.

Education is another focal point of the budget with plans to raise starting teacher salaries to be the highest in the Southeast. Investments are also directed towards student health services by hiring more school nurses and counselors and providing free breakfast in public schools. School infrastructure upgrades are included along with initiatives to reduce classroom distractions from cell phones.

Public safety measures in the budget include salary increases for state law enforcement officers with a focus on correctional officers and youth counselors. It also seeks investments to combat fentanyl distribution, resolve cold sexual assault cases, and fund body cameras for objective evidence gathering.

Health initiatives focus on promoting affordable healthcare access across North Carolina. The budget supports rural clinics and offers aid for individuals struggling with substance use disorders while ensuring clean air and water standards are met.

Fiscal responsibility is highlighted through the establishment of an IMPACT Center aimed at enhancing efficiency within state programs. The budget suggests freezing current tax rates for individuals and corporations as a measure against fiscal challenges posed by rapid population growth.

The full details of Governor Stein’s budget proposal can be accessed through official channels.