This week, North Carolina’s students won big. I am very proud to share with you that two of my amendments to increase North Carolina’s education funding cleared the Senate.
I’m beyond thrilled that North Carolinians will see a significant increase in education funding for our children as a result of these two pieces of legislation. For the future of our state, it is imperative that we do all we can to assist our students, regardless of background, in reaching high academic standards. Only through a strong education system can we secure a bright economic future for North Carolina. It is my belief that now we have legislation that will help get us back on the right path to empowering our students at a local level.
With these two new provisions North Carolina can look forward to gaining up to $72 million for Title I funding and an additional $27 million in Title II funding.
Read more about the increase in funding here and here.
Check out McClatchy’s coverage of the education bill here: North Carolina could get millions in revamped education bill.
This week, the Senate also passed legislation I sponsored to continue social and nutrition services—from Meals-on-Wheels to senior centers—for nearly 12 million U.S. seniors. The Older Americans Act, which turns 50 this week, has needed to be reauthorized since 2011.
More and more seniors have been calling North Carolina home over the past 15 years. Programs like the Older Americans Act ensure that local communities can help provide services to their older, and often most vulnerable, members. Current law doesn’t reflect where seniors are moving, meaning that states with the largest elderly populations don’t have sufficient funding for programs like Meals on Wheels. What the Senate passed yesterday would reauthorize the Older Americans Act and help ensure that the funding is following those who most need it. Read more here.
It was announced this week that a “deal” had been reached with Iran. I have deep concerns about the President’s Iranian nuclear deal and anticipate a thorough Congressional review of the agreement. Several Americans are currently held in Iran, and the regime continues to be the largest supporter of terrorism in the world. Through the work of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, the American people and Congress have the right to evaluate this deal and let their voices be heard.
On a somber note, I would like to address the sad and troubling events that unfolded yesterday in Chattanooga. I extend my deepest sympathies to the families of our dedicated service members who were killed in this senseless act of violence. I have closely monitored these events through continuous engagement with our law enforcement and intelligence community officials. We must remain vigilant in our efforts to counter those who seek to conduct great harm against Americans.
Sincerely,
Richard Burr