Political Opinion: From Sen. Jarvis' Desk - February 17, 2023
Dear Friends,
This workweek in Raleigh has been productive. I have visited with several residents from our Davidson and Davie County communities, as well as professionals who represent healthcare and the building industry. We have held thought-provoking discussions on a variety of topics. I look forward to continuing the dialogue and strengthening relationships with our office visitors.
This week has been busy in the Senate and House chambers of the General Assembly. Committees are continually meeting throughout the week. I have learned about key state agencies and their operations during our Joint Appropriations for General Government and Informational Technology committee meetings. I am seeing areas that could use improvements and updates.
I have received many messages of support for the recent SB 41, also known as Guarantee 2nd Amendment Freedom and Protections, which proposes a repeal of the pistol purchase permit that has existed in NC for years. This bill will be helpful to law-abiding citizens who would like to have easier access to the purchase and ownership of handguns by getting rid of the required permit. This bill also addresses two other measures: the allowance for carrying guns into a place of worship by a gun-owner who holds a valid concealed carry permit and the initiative of raising awareness about safe storage of guns.
Additionally, I have sponsored a bill that will have a positive influence on the sawmill industry. Senate bill 70 will allow ungraded lumber to be used by local sawmills in order to support building professionals' goals of constructing dwellings safely and efficiently. I look forward to seeing the beneficial ways this bill can strengthen both the lumber and building economies in our local area.
Click on the link below for a look at the other bills that I have co-sponsored so far this session.
Senator Jarvis' Co-Sponsored Bills
In other news, the NC DMV recently announced changes to several processes that should make life a little easier when you have to make the trip to your local DMV office. Starting May 1st, appointments can be made online for morning visits. For the afternoon business hours, the DMV is returning to walk in services. More examiners are being added to increase staffing and some locations are opening one hour earlier! Hopefully, these changes will turn the chore of visiting a DMV office into a more pleasant experience.
The Davidson County Sheriff's Office is offering a Citizen's Academy for residents to learn more about the duties of the Sheriff's Office. This community event is free and will be helpful for people to interact with the local law enforcement to learn more about their services. Please register to attend so that you can participate in helpful conversations with our Officers and also to show your support of their service.
The Town of Mocksville has been selected to receive state grant money to help a new business renovate and expand its location and to extend a water line. The funds are being distributed by the North Carolina Rural Infrastructure Authority and the total amount Mocksville will receive is over one million dollars. These funds will contribute 52 jobs and attract more business along the I-40 corridor.
The Davidson County Airport may soon be known by a new name, Davidson County Executive Airport. The County Board of Commissioners and the Airport Authority met recently to discuss the proposed name change, and the resolution passed unanimously. The NC Department of Aviation and the Federal Aviation Administration will have to give the final approval. I am eager to see how the name change will convey the economic strength of our area and will attract additional business!
For those families who have a college-bound student, you don't want to miss this scholarship opportunity. The deadline is quickly approaching but with the cost of college skyrocketing, you may be able to get some relief from the expenses if your child qualifies. The Golden Leaf Scholarship was created for students that live in rural areas, who will be attending college and returning to a rural area in NC after graduation. Follow the link below to see more details.
If you have concerns, or questions, you can reply to this newsletter, email, or call my office at (919) 733-5743.
I also take time each day to personally call citizens in our district to listen to their concerns. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to serve you!
Senator Steve Jarvis,
NC District 30
