Political Opinion: From Sen. Jarvis' Desk - March 3, 2023
Dear Friends,
Another week has flown by in the General Assembly in Raleigh. Sixty years of legislation has also flown by inside the uniquely designed Legislative Building on Jones Street. We celebrate the past 60 years by honoring the architect, Edward Durrell Stone, who also designed Radio City Music Hall and the John F. Kennedy Center! The first session occurred in our building on February 6, 1963.
Exciting conversations are being held about a variety of topics that aim to improve the lives of North Carolinians. Our committee schedule was full this week. I also had the pleasure of participating in meetings with residents of Davidson and Davie County in our office. Some of our visitors included Future Farmers of America high school students, nurses, college students pursuing careers in social work and several manufacturing industry professionals.
Several bills that I have sponsored or co-sponsored have seen energetic action this week! I am especially pleased to introduce Senate Bill 166, which will require a public entity to cover the costs that a customer may have in regards to connecting to a water or sewer system after they have received approval. Property owners should not have to bear the burden of unexpected repair or connection costs once they have met the standards for connection.
Additional bill actions that I would like to highlight includes:
SB 95 Expedite Water/Wastewater Transfer
SB 156 Medicaid Children and Families Plan
SB 176 Consumers in Crisis Protection Act
I have included a deeper dive into all of these bills, plus more, in our newsletter below.
Two bills that I am truly honored to be involved in are SB 148 deViere Disabled Veterans Act and SB 149 Veterans Appreciation Act. One bill will allow a property tax exclusion for the first $100,000 appraised value of a disabled veteran's homestead. This is an increase from $45,000! The second bill provides additional tax relief for their homesteads. Our service members deserve optimum governance for their patriotic commitment and sacrifices.
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
Medicaid Expansion continues to be discussed in both chambers, and now is closer to being placed in this year's budget. Senator Berger and Representative Moore held talks this week to convey the status of how Medicaid Expansion would affect North Carolinians.
Senator Berger, our President Pro Tem, recently released the appointees for a new subcommittee that will be involved with the recovery process from Hurricane Florence. I am honored to be chosen for the important task of helping our state's citizens get their lives back in order after suffering so many losses due to this storm.
Our State of the State address will be held March 6th. During this event,
North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson will give the response to Gov. Roy Cooper’s State of the State address. Robinson’s speech will follow Cooper’s inside the House chambers of the Legislative Building on Monday night. The response gives Robinson a wonderful opportunity to address a statewide audience and provide more insight to his potential run for the Governor's office.
On Thursday, Gov. Roy Cooper announced two judicial appointments to North Carolina Superior and District Courts. These appointments were to fill vacancies within the courts. Sally Kirby Turner has been appointed to serve as a Superior Court Judge, which serves Cleveland and Lincoln counties. J. Alex Pully has been appointed to serve as a District Court Judge serving Carteret, Craven and Pamlico counties.
I have spent a lot of time with students of all ages this week, both in Raleigh and in our district. Mr. Grant invited me to read a book to his 4th grade class today at Charles England Elementary school to celebrate Read Across America Day. I also had the pleasure of attending Miss Riley Elliott's ceremony honoring her appointment to the DARE AMERICA youth position. It's been a great week interacting with young folks!
There are a variety of events occurring this weekend around Lexington and Davie County. Pick something outside and enjoy nature with your family or friends!
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!
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Senator Steve Jarvis,
NC District 30
