Legislators returned to Raleigh this week to overturn Gov. Roy Cooper's vetoes on several bills but did not announce a compromise state budget. Senate Leader Phil Berger said he expects a vote on the budget to take place the week of Sept. 11.

SEANC's lobbyists continue to advocate for a 5% pay raise each of the next two years as well as a $5,000 bonus for employees and a true cost-of-living adjustment for retirees.

Government Relations Director Suzanne Beasley appeared on the popular Under the Dome podcast this week (video above) to discuss the need for investment to tackle the vacancy crisis in state government.

Beasley and the lobbying team also worked on an issue involving school personnel this week after a story detailed how a veteran Johnston County teacher was denied the parental leave promised in a recently passed law. Because schools make policies at the district level, some personnel are now unable to use the leave. SEANC is working with Rep. Donna White to remedy the situation.