We returned to Raleigh this week and have already set to work studying legislation that has been introduced.
We remain particularly interested in finding ways to continue to add jobs, improve our economy and preserve the quality of education in North Carolina.
Leadership
With the change in control at the General Assembly, Rep. Thom Tillis of Mecklenburg County has been elected the new Speaker of the House. Rep. Dale Folwell of Forsyth County was elected Speaker Pro Tempore.
For the 2011 session of the General Assembly I have been elected to serve as a Minority Whip for the North Carolina House and will serve on the following committees: Appropriations Subcommittee on Natural and Economic Resources, Commerce and Job Development, Commerce and Job Development Subcommittee on Science and Technology, Health and Human Services, Insurance, and Public Utilities
I look forward to serving in these roles and representing the interest of the people of our community.
Health Care
A bill introduced in the House this week seeks to force our state Attorney General to join other states challenging the new federal health care law. It carries little weight on its own since state laws cannot override federal laws. The bill passed the Judiciary Committee without a clear understanding of what the costs of litigation, lost productivity or other costs associated with poor health care. The chairman of the committee refused to require a full fiscal analysis or comment from advocates for health or the public. The bill is expected to go the full House next week.
Notes
Please remember that you can use the General Assembly’s website to look up bills, view lawmaker biographies and access other information. The site also contains detailed information about the state budget and legislative schedules.