THE 2011 PERFORMANCE RANKINGS ARE IN!!
http://www.civitasaction.org//all-legislators.php/2011/new/?year=2011&new=new
Ralph Hise scores “A”
Ray Rapp scores “F”
Look at their overall rankings by clicking on the link above.
We need to work hard for Ralph so we can keep him in Office and work just as hard to support Michele Presnell and/or Ben Keilman in their efforts to send Ray Rapp into retirement.
Civitas Action, a nonprofit political advocacy group, categorizing lawmakers based on their votes on legislation. Lawmakers that support “free-market economic policies, limited government and personal responsibility” get higher conservative scores and “effectiveness” ratings.
Senator Hise at our October 2011 Executive Committee Meeting:
This Week in Raleigh
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 17 August 3, 2011
Dear Friends,
The General Assembly was called back to Raleigh last week for a special session to address one of the most important responsibilities of the legislature this year: determining fair, legal and competitive congressional and legislative districts that reflect the past decade’s population changes. In addition, both the Senate and the House took action to override some of Governor Beverly Perdue’s vetoes of important legislation.
Redistricting activity
We spent the bulk of last week considering and voting on redrawn maps for North Carolina’s Congressional, state House of Representatives and state Senate districts based on population information gathered during the 2010 Census. The redistricting process was another historic opportunity for Republicans to have input for the first time in over 100 years. I am proud of the work that was done and believe the new maps reflect fair and legal districts that will produce competitive elections across North Carolina. The maps will now be sent on to the federal Department of Justice and the US District Court system for pre-clearance.
You may visit these links below to see the new districts:
United States Congress – NC Delegation
North Carolina House of Representatives
The approved Senate map changes the makeup of the 47th District. The new 47th District will still include Madison, McDowell, Mitchell and Yancey counties and will also add Polk and Rutherford counties. Meanwhile, Avery County will be moved into the 44th District, which is currently represented by Senator Dan Soucek of Boone, and all of Haywood County will be included in the 50th District that is represented by Senator Jim Davis of Franklin. While I am truly disappointed to lose the opportunity to represent Avery and Haywood counties in 2012, I believe constituents in these two counties will benefit from the leadership of my colleagues and friends Senators Soucek and Davis. In the meantime, I look forward to continuing to serve the existing district for the next year and a half, so please do not hesitate to contact me if I may be of assistance.
Veto overrides
I joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers to override several of Governor Perdue’s vetoes last week. Many of the overrides were part of a critical effort to create a better business environment and help put North Carolinians back to work.
Regulatory Reform
With huge bipartisan support, the General Assembly overrode the governor’s veto of the Regulatory Reform Act, which clarifies and simplifies some of North Carolina’s confusing and outdated regulations, making it easier for citizens and businesses to attain permits and rely on more predictable guidelines. This override is an important signal to businesses that they won’t be overregulated as they fight to make ends meet and keep people employed.
Medical Malpractice
We also overrode the governor’s veto of our medical liability reform bill, which will attract new jobs, ensure more people receive health care and lower health care costs.
Under the current system, doctors must administer dozens of unnecessary tests and procedures to avoid lawsuits, and the expensive cost of that defensive medicine is passed on to taxpayers in the form of higher insurance rates and taxpayer-funded medical programs for the poor. Our reforms, which will take effect October 1, will persuade more doctors to practice in North Carolina.
ESC Jobs
Another law enacted this week reforms the state’s Employment Security Commission, which is buried in debt to the federal government. Importantly, the new law moves ESC to the Department of Commerce, where it will be better managed
Woman’s Right to Know
Both chambers also voted to override the governor’s veto of the Woman’s Right to Know Act, which requires a 24-hour waiting period for women considering abortions and ensures that doctors provide information about adoption and other alternatives. North Carolina now joins about thirty other states with similar laws.
Up next
The General Assembly is scheduled to return to session on September 12th to consider bills that propose amendments to the North Carolina Constitution.
As always, if I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff. Thank you again for the privilege of representing you in the North Carolina Senate.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 16 June 22, 2011
Dear Friends,
The North Carolina Senate adjourned at 12:59 AM on Saturday morning, following 87 days of an always interesting, sometimes frustrating, but ultimately very efficient and productive legislative session. Adjournment came at the end of a week that included an override of the governor’s veto of the state budget and the passage of important legislation relating to voter identification, annexation reform and dozens of other issues of concern to North Carolina citizens.
Veto override
On June 15, the Senate voted to override Gov. Beverly Perdue’s veto of the legislature’s bipartisan budget proposal for 2011-2013. The veto override was the final step before the $19.7 billion spending plan for the state became law.
The end of the budget debate was marked with definite resistance to change and a lot of rhetoric, but our final product reduces state spending by more than $1 billion while protecting core state services. It is a balanced budget that finally brings state spending in line with our revenues, and it keeps our promise and the governor’s promise to allow the temporary sales and income taxes to expire. Further, this budget promotes job growth and fully funds teacher and teacher’s assistant positions.
I have discussed at length in previous communications the difficult decisions that we have faced as a result of inheriting a $2.5 billion budget deficit. However, I feel this budget, which twice passed with bipartisan support, ultimately represents the will of voters. I was glad to cast my vote for a responsible effort to spend tax dollars wisely, fuel job creation in the private sector, and develop mechanisms to improve results in public education.
Legislative action
The General Assembly passed hundreds of bills in our 87 legislative days, including many long-overdue reforms that will put North Carolina on a new, more responsible path to better economic growth and prosperity. We also adjourned quicker than any legislature since 1973!
I wanted to share with you some of our most significant legislative actions:
- Balanced a bipartisan budget that cuts taxes, reduces spending, and reforms and improves public education – all while closing a $2.5 billion deficit. Our chief task, of course, was producing a spending plan that finally makes North Carolina’s government live within its means.
- Made tax reforms that will jump start the economy by helping the private sector create thousands of new jobs. The state budget eliminates a nearly $1 billion “temporary” sales tax hike that was raised in the peak of the economic recession and promised to end this year. It also eliminates the “temporary” income tax surcharge and enacts a $50,000 income exemption for private businesses – the job-creating engines of North Carolina’s economy. The tax savings return more than $1 billion to the pockets of North Carolina citizens and businesses, where it will create as many as 15,000 jobs in the short term and thousands more in the future, economists say
- Passed sweeping changes to the state’s regulatory environment that will simplify outdated rules and regulations. More than 15,000 new or amended regulations have hit the books over the past decade. Many are complex, confusing, and unnecessary rules that are imposed by unelected bureaucrats and cause uncertainty for the state’s businesses. The bill that passed the House and Senate prohibits new state regulations that are more restrictive than federal rules, and requires the state to review and eliminate burdensome regulations annually.
- Approved medical malpractice and other tort reforms that will help North Carolina attract medical jobs and make health care coverage cheaper and more accessible for everyone. North Carolina doctors practice defensive medicine, and often must order unnecessary tests and procedures to avoid being sued. That enormous added cost is passed on to taxpayers in the form of higher insurance rates and taxpayer-funded medical programs for the poor. It’s one of the highest costs of health care, and these reforms help fix a broken system.
- Passed a measure requiring voters to show photo identification at the polls. Studies show photo ID requirements boost voter confidence and participation. It’s a hugely popular measure and one I hope Gov. Perdue will sign into law.
- Reformed the state’s annexation laws to protect private property rights. The long-overdue, comprehensive annexation reform the legislature passed will keep municipalities from forcibly annexing private property and saddling residents with the high costs of hooking up to municipal services. Residents often pay thousands of dollars to connect to water and sewer lines – against their will. This is the first time North Carolina’s annexation laws have been reformed in more than 50 years.
- Protected the Second Amendment rights of North Carolinians. A bill on the governor’s desk would further protect property owners who use a weapon in self-defense, and expand the number of places citizens with a concealed carry permit can carry firearms.
- Fought to protect North Carolinians from President Obama’s overreaching federal health care law. The legislature passed a bill early in the session that gave North Carolinians the right to opt out of the law, the same right the Obama administration extended to some favored corporations and Washington insiders. This bill was unfortunately vetoed by the governor.
Moving forward
The Senate will reconvene Wednesday, July 13 for a special one-week session to address redistricting. There are once again several opportunities for you to share your input in advance of the session, with public hearings scheduled in Boone and in Cullowhee on July 7. More information about the redistricting process may be found at the legislature’s redistricting website.
I am looking forward to returning to work and to spending the majority of the summer in western North Carolina. As always, if I can be of assistance to you, please do not hesitate to contact me or my staff. Thank you again for the privilege of representing you in the North Carolina Senate.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 15 June 2, 2011
Dear Friends,
After weeks of working to craft a responsible state spending plan followed by negotiating with legislative Democrats, we finally reached a bipartisan budget agreement with at least five House Democrats this week. We passed this compromise budget out of the Senate Thursday. It has gone to the House for final approval, and we expect it to be on the governor’s desk this weekend.
It’s a plan that keeps our promise to cut taxes, reduce government spending, pave the way for thousands of new private sector jobs, and make important reforms to public education.
It was also crafted, and passed, in record time, and with more opportunity for debate and public input than ever before.
The compromise is a $19.7 billion budget that adds about $240 million more than the original Senate version to public education.
Governor Beverly Perdue decried our original plan because it scaled back education spending. Now, the difference between our education budget and the governor’s is less than 1 percent – and she’s still blasting it with extreme, apocalyptic horror stories. Hyperbole might energize her political base, but it’s not helping us move the state forward, or spend North Carolinians’ money responsibly.
Reasons the governor should get on board
There are countless reasons Governor Perdue should put politics aside and support the bipartisan compromise. Here are 10 of the best:
1. It keeps her promise to end a nearly $1 billion sales tax hike. Gov. Perdue vowed two years ago to end the “temporary” tax hike. Our budget keeps her word.
2. It closes a $2.5 billion budget shortfall. The balanced budget fulfills our constitutional mandate to balance the state’s checkbook.
3. It fuels job growth. Ending the sales tax hike and providing a $50,000 tax exemption for businesses will return billions to the pockets of North Carolina citizens and businesses and help the private sector create thousands of new jobs, economists say.
4. It fully funds classroom teachers and teaching assistants. The governor’s chief objection to original House and Senate budgets was reduced spending for teaching assistants. This budget restores that funding – without raising taxes.
5. It reforms public education. Instead of accepting graduation rates ranked No. 43 in the nation, our budget makes several improvements to public schools:
a. It adds more than 1,100 additional teachers to grades 1 through 3 to begin reducing class sizes.
b. It implements a performance pay program for teachers and state employees.
c. It creates a plan to ensure students can read at grade level by fourth grade.
d. It adds five days to the school calendar.
6. The governor’s budget saddles counties with many expenses that ours does not. For example, our budget:
a. Funds $56 million in school bus replacement.
b. Provides than $50 million additional dollars for school construction.
c. Fully funds enrollment growth for K-12 and community colleges for the next two years and for universities in the first year of the biennium.
d. Does not make millions in workers’ compensation and lawsuit costs local responsibilities.
7. It right-sizes state government. The governor says she’s serious about reshaping state government to make it smaller and more efficient. Our budget cuts more than $1 billion from last year’s spending level by consolidating and cutting waste and bureaucracy.
8. It extends unemployment benefits. More than 37,000 North Carolinians will retroactively receive unemployment benefits if our budget becomes law.
9. It adds millions to reserve accounts. The state’s Rainy Day and Repair and Renovation accounts are funded by millions more than the governor’s plan – clearly displaying the state’s fiscal prudence.
10. It’s a compromise. The legislature is meeting the governor more than halfway. She should compromise. North Carolinians deserve elected officials willing to reach across the aisle to get the job done.
As always, I appreciate your interest in state government and look forward to hearing your feedback and suggestions as we move forward.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 14 May 17, 2011
Dear Friends,
Last week was once again a busy week, and I want to share with you the latest update on our progress on balancing the state budget and other important legislation.
Time for some budget fact-checking
We all know by now that inheriting a $2.5 billion budget shortfall has necessitated making some very difficult decisions with regard to the state budget. And while no one is pretending that budget cuts won’t be felt in a very real way, the misinformation that is being circulated by opponents and big government think tanks is damaging and is not contributing to productive discussion about how to responsibly allocate our resources.
Here are some facts about the ongoing budget process:
On “draconian” cuts in the proposed House Budget
- The General Assembly’s non-partisan Fiscal Research Division has documented that actual reductions in expenditures are about 5% from this year’s spending to next year’s.
- In the public schools, projected cuts in K-12 education expenditures are about 3.3%.
On increasing the state sales tax by 1% – “it’s only a penny”
- $1.2 billion in new taxes – the amount it is estimated the sales tax increase would generate – is significant. In fact, it represents an approximate 5% tax increase for citizens.
- In a recent study, the UNC Center for Competitive Economies concluded that not raising taxes this year will result in the creation of about 16,000 private sector jobs.
As legislators, one of our chief responsibilities is to balance a budget that provides vital state services, but does not tread on the individual freedoms of North Carolina citizens or businesses. Ultimately, I believe taxpayers will support with a state budget that lives within its means and gets us through this recession by setting state priorities, cutting spending and lowering taxes.
Continuing the fight for health care freedom
You probably remember Governor Perdue’s veto of House Bill 2, the Protect Health Care Freedom Act, back in March. This legislation would have allowed North Carolinians to opt out of major provisions of President Obama’s overreaching federal health care law, including a mandate that every citizen purchase health insurance or be criminalized.
In spite of the Governor’s disappointing action, our General Assembly leadership continued the fight against this harmful legislation last week by filing a brief challenging the health care law as unconstitutional and as one that would violate states’ rights and bust the state budget. The amicus brief is for the State of Florida v. United States Department of Health and Human Services case being considered by the U.S. Court of Appeals in Atlanta and supports the 26 other states who are suing the federal government to stop the implementation of the “Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.”
Senate President Pro Tem Phil Berger called it “a shame” that the General Assembly had to file the brief in the wake of the Governor and Attorney General Roy Cooper’s refusal to defend the constitutional rights of North Carolinians, and I agree. Obamacare will force taxpayers to spend hundreds of millions of dollars more annually on Medicaid, thereby hindering the state’s ability to provide other critical services.
Senate Bill 709, the Energy Jobs Act
With skyrocketing gas prices and continued unrest in the Middle East, the issue of American energy independence is as relevant as it has ever been. The Senate passed a bipartisan bill last week that urges Governor Perdue to partner with the governors of South Carolina and Virginia to lobby the president and others to open North Carolina’s coast for energy exploration. We think doing so could produce a robust energy sector in North Carolina – one that brings thousands of new jobs and billions of dollars in new state revenue.
In and around the district
Congratulations to the many college graduates across western North Carolina who celebrated at commencement ceremonies over the weekend. I was privileged to attend Mayland Community College’s graduation ceremony on Saturday morning. I was also honored to attend the important and extremely moving Salute to Veterans in McDowell County on Saturday afternoon as well as the annual auction for Marion Christian Academy later in the evening.
Finally, thanks to the Mitchell County chapter of Retired School Personnel for hosting Rep. Phillip Frye and me at their regular meeting and for presenting us with thoughtful questions and suggestions.
As always, I appreciate your interest in state government and look forward to hearing your feedback and suggestions as we move forward.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 13 May 10, 2011
Dear Friends,
It has once again been a busy couple of weeks at the General Assembly, and I want to share with you some of what has been happening since my last legislative update. As always, if I can provide you with additional information on specific legislation or the legislative process, please do not hesitate to contact my office.
Balancing the budget
The Senate received the budget passed by the House of Representatives on May 5, and we now have the task of examining every line item before passing it through our chamber. We’ll spend the next several weeks working to responsibly right-size state government while still providing critical services, such as classroom teachers and public safety agencies. As the Senate works to complete this process, I will keep you updated with a legislative report that focuses specifically on budget proposals.
We plan to stay true to our promise to balance the budget without raising taxes and increasing the burden on taxpayers, which will have massive implications for the future. Shrinking government will put hundreds of millions of dollars back into the private sector, where that money will allow entrepreneurs and small business owners to create the jobs needed to get North Carolina back on the road to prosperity.
A balanced budget is the single greatest job-creator that government can offer.
Broadband bill
Last week, the Senate passed House Bill 129, “Level Playing Field/Local Government Competition” with bi-partisan support. This legislation sets rules for local governments who wish to compete with private sector companies to provide broadband internet. Across the state, we have seen how the establishment of government-run broadband service has resulted in hundreds of millions of dollars of debt which becomes the responsibility of the taxpayer. The passage of H129 will give taxpayers input before local governments can incur debt for the purpose of competing against private industry.
State health plan compromise
Following negotiations with the House of Representatives and Governor Perdue’s staff, the Senate approved a new bill to address the solvency of the State Health Plan while continuing to provide quality insurance for state employees and retirees. The new plan requires state employees to pay a modest $10 premium for health care coverage and also reduces monthly premiums for state retirees eligible for Medicare, without costing taxpayers any more money.
We are hopeful that Governor Perdue will support this compromise. Back in April, she vetoed our initial plan, despite its striking similarity to her own proposal. We encourage her to meet us halfway to help solve this serious financial problem.
In and around the district
The unrelenting pace that the Senate is taking on has lately made it somewhat more of a challenge to get back home than I would like! Still, I had the opportunity to attend the small business entrepreneurship awards program at Haywood Community College on Friday and to visit with members of French Broad EMC at the annual dinner in Madison County on Saturday.
I appreciate all of the citizens who have recently taken time to travel to Raleigh to meet with me, including Junior McEntyre from Yancey County as well as the elected officials from Waynesville, Maggie Valley and Marion who visited as part of the NC League of Municipalities Town Hall Day event. Thanks also to the students at Bee Log Elementary School for stopping by for a visit during their recent trip to Raleigh!
Thank you for the opportunity to continue representing you in the North Carolina Senate. I hope you have a great week.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 12 April 29, 2011
Dear Friends,
While much of our attention has, of course, been devoted to the ongoing budget discussions, the Senate also took time last week to consider beneficial legislation that will aid in the fight against prescription drug abuse.
Senate Bill 474, which I sponsored along with my colleague Senator Tom Apodaca of Hendersonville, passed the Senate with overwhelming support. It would require presenting a photo ID to buy powerful painkillers that often are abused or sold to dealers. Overdosing and abusing prescriptions is a massive problem across the state, and without a doubt in our mountain counties. We have all seen how this problem can wreck lives and devastate families.
My thanks to Waynesville Police Chief Bill Hollingsed and our local law enforcement agencies for their instrumental help in drafting this bill. Chief Hollingsed shared as part of our discussions the compelling statistic that 1 out of every 4 deaths being investigated by the Haywood County medical examiner’s offices involves a prescription drug overdose. Senate Bill 474 will enable our law enforcement officers to better track drugs and deter criminals.
Redistricting public hearings this weekend
The Joint Committee on Redistricting will host public hearings in western North Carolina this Saturday, April 30 as part of the redistricting process for the State House, State Senate and U.S. Congressional districts.
The following hearings will take place on will take place on April 30 at 9:30 a.m.:
Catawba County
Catawba Valley Community College
Cuyler A. Dunbar (CAD) Building, Room 114
2550 US 70 Hwy. SE
Hickory, N.C. 28602
http://www.cvcc.edu/About_Us/Directions_Campus_Map.cfm
The following hearings will take place on will take place on April 30 at 4:00 p.m.:
Buncombe County
University of North Carolina at Asheville
Robinson Hall, 129 Steelcase Teleconference Room
One University Heights
Asheville, N.C. 28804
http://www.unca.edu/maps/driving-directions
Watauga County
Appalachian State University
Anne Belk Hall
Interactive Video Services, Classroom 023
224 Joyce Lawrence Lane
Boone, N.C. 28608
http://maps.appstate.edu/campus-map/index.php?marker=12
Jackson County
Western Carolina University
Cordelia Camp Building, Room 133-B
69 East University Way
Cullowhee, N.C. 28273
I will be at the Hickory and Boone meetings and encourage you to participate in this process. Members of the public may share their comments of up to five minutes by signing up in advance. Onsite registration begins an hour prior to the hearing and closes before the meeting begins. You may also register online up to 24 hours in advance of the hearing by visiting the following link:
http://www.ncleg.net/applications/rts/Redistricting.aspx?id=4
As always, please feel free to contact my office at any time with your concerns or questions.
Thank you for the opportunity to continue representing you in the North Carolina Senate. I hope you have a great weekend.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 11 April 18, 2011
Dear Friends,
Last week was one of the most interesting, and at times frustrating, we have had this session at the General Assembly.
On Tuesday, the House and the Senate met in the historic State Capitol building to commemorate the 235th anniversary of the passage of the Halifax Resolves, which was the first official act by any of the thirteen colonies calling for independence from Great Britain.
Later in the week, the House released its budget options, which you may review at the General Assembly website here. While the Senate is still working on our proposals and recommended revisions, these targets are the first step toward cutting spending and reshaping state government in a way that will help the private sector pull North Carolina out of these grueling economic times.
The Unborn Victims of Violence Act / Ethen’s Law
On Thursday, the Senate passed House Bill 215, the Unborn Victims of Violence Act / Ethen’s Law. With the passage of this legislation, North Carolina will join approximately 35 other states along with the federal government in recognizing that perpetrators who commit murder, manslaughter or assault against a pregnant woman are guilty of the same crimes against her unborn baby. Under current North Carolina law it is illegal to kill an unborn deer but not an unborn child – an irony which underscores the fact that House Bill 215 is long overdue, common sense legislation.
Irresponsible vetoes from Governor Perdue
State Health Plan
On Wednesday night, we learned about Gov. Perdue’s veto of Senate Bill 265, which would have rescued the State Health Plan, now more than half a billion dollars in the hole. The legislation would require state employees to pay up to five percent of their health insurance premiums, something private-sector employees would overwhelmingly embrace. The proposal was endorsed by the State Employees Association of North Carolina, and we modeled our changes after those in the governor’s own budget proposal.
Still, Gov. Perdue vetoed the bill because, by her own admission, the unions balked at it. Evidently she decided catering to her political allies is more important than saving the plan from financial collapse or even than sticking by her own recommendations.
The governor’s actions have put the State Health Plan on a slippery slope. If a final solution is not reached by the end of this week, then the plan will no longer be grandfathered under the conditions of the federal “Obamacare” legislation. At that point, unless North Carolina receives an exemption, the additional cost to the state will be in excess of $90 million.
Extended Unemployment Benefits
The situation worsened over the weekend with the governor’s veto of House Bill 383. Following a last minute alert from the state’s Employment Security Commission that if the General Assembly did not pass a bill by Saturday then 37,000 North Carolinians could lose their unemployment benefits, we quickly passed a bill to extend those benefits. We also attached a responsible measure to the bill to prevent a government shutdown if our budget negotiations drag on past June 30 – the end of the fiscal year.
We did this not to be political, but to protect North Carolina’s state employees and business leaders from a situation like the one we are seeing in Washington – which seems ever more likely given Gov. Perdue’s use of the veto on every attempt to cut spending and change the course of state government. We’re worried that the governor’s obvious obstructionist mindset could eventually result in a government shutdown, which the citizens of this state neither want nor deserve.
Moving forward
It’s now clear that the governor isn’t up to the challenge of cutting spending and making government live within its means. After years of reckless spending that put this state in a massive financial mess, she insists on raising taxes and bucking every attempt to scale back the size and scope of government. That’s ignoring the clear will of the voters, who last November overwhelmingly elected us to fix the failed policies of past administrations, reduce bureaucracy, and make help this economy thrive once again.
But make no mistake: we’ll keep fighting for a more responsible government. And we’ll work with the governor, if she’ll let us. But we won’t raise taxes, and we won’t accept the status quo on government spending and failed education policies. Leaders have ignored tough decisions for far too long. It’s time to make tough choices.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 10 April 11, 2011
Dear Friends,
With new data being released by the Fiscal Research Division at the NC General Assembly, the central goal of this legislative session has come even more clearly into focus, and that is balancing next year’s budget.
Our nonpartisan professional legislative staff says the state still faces a $2.5 billion budget hole, despite claims by Gov. Beverly Perdue and others that the deficit has diminished to $1.9 billion.
Data released on Thursday shows the budget’s steady climb from $13.3 billion in 1999 to more than $20 billion this year. Only in 2008 did the budget shrink – by less than 2.5 percent.
It’s an unfortunate reality, but also one that bears repeating: the state of North Carolina is broke. The policies of the past decade have taxed and spent us into a massive financial hole, and produced an unemployment rate still hovering near 10 percent.
With that in mind, the NC House will release its version of the budget this week. The General Assembly’s joint Appropriations subcommittees have been meeting daily or sometimes twice a day to review agency proposals and staff recommendations and to craft a budget that gets government out of the way of the private sector and lets you keep more of your own money. Although I am sure the proposed House budget will be examined with a critical eye and revised where appropriate in the coming weeks, I believe it will provide a starting point for our efforts to lower taxes, eliminate waste and reform education. These changes will enable the private sector to add new jobs in the years and decades to come.
Two opportunities to register your input
A reminder: The listening tour being conducted by the Joint Committee on Regulatory Reform makes its way to western North Carolina on Friday with a stop in Flat Rock. I plan to attend this public meeting on April 15th at 1:00 PM at Blue Ridge Community College, and I hope to see some of you there, too. Remember, the committee is seeking feedback from the public on burdensome state rules and regulations. If you cannot make the meeting, but would still like to provide input, you may do so at the committee’s website or by sending your written comments to Regulatory Reform Comments, 16 West Jones Street, Room 2007, Raleigh, NC 27601.
I was honored to be asked to serve as a member of the Senate Committee on Redistricting. The committee met for the first time last week, and work is underway. One of our first tasks is to conduct hearings at sites across the state to accept public comment on the redistricting process for the State House, State Senate and U.S. Congressional districts. Members of the public may comment on the current district plans, communities of interest, voting history, or any other topic related to redistricting. I will keep you updated on the meeting schedule, or you may submit written comments to be included in the public record to Redistricting Committee, 300 N. Salisbury Street, Suite 545 Legislative Office Building, Raleigh, NC 27603 or online here.
Hearing from you
Over the past couple of weeks, visitors to my office have included business and community leaders who were part of a joint delegation from the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce and the Asheville Area and Henderson County Chambers. Phillip Jackson from McDowell County was here on behalf of the North Carolina Bar Association, and a large delegation of FreedomWorks representatives McDowell County stopped by the office. I also met with homeschool families as part of the North Carolinians for Home Education visit to the legislature.
On Fridays, I am often back in the district and have the opportunity to meet with constituents and our local agency representatives. In the past two weeks, I have been able to hear from the Board members of the Mitchell County Soil & Water Conservation District, County Extension Director Jeff Vance of the Mitchell County Agricultural Extension Office, Madison County farmers as part of the NC Farm Bureau rally and Chief Jay Hefner with the Beech Mountain Police Department in Avery County, among others.
Last week in particular I heard from hundreds of constituents via calls, emails, letters and visits to our office. Whether you have questions about the intent or impact of proposed legislation or concerns about how the budget shortfall might affect the provision of programs and services, please know that I pay close attention to your feedback and appreciate your willingness to be a part of the solutions to the many challenges faced by our state.
As always, I hope you will let me know your thoughts on any of the items in this newsletter or any other issues you feel are important. Thank you for the opportunity to continue representing you in the North Carolina Senate. I hope you have a great week.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 9 March 28, 2011
Dear Friends,
We’ve surpassed 30 legislative days at the General Assembly, and though the pace and budget concerns have been challenging to step in to, I am pleased with the progress we’ve made on important legislation. Below is an overview of key legislation passed to date:
- Senate Bill 109, just signed into law by Governor Perdue, is a savings bills to help save taxpayers money this fiscal year to prepare for a multi-billion dollar budget deficit. We did this to minimize harm to classroom teachers and state employees and to foster an environment that gives the private sector freedom to create jobs.
- Senate Bill 22 prohibits government agencies from adopting new regulations that cost businesses and taxpayers money (unless certain limited exceptions are met such as a court order, action of the general assembly or threat to health and safety).
- Senate Joint Resolution 17 created a Joint Regulatory Reform Committee that is touring the state to get input from citizens regarding vague, unnecessary and outdated regulations that are an impediment to job creation.
- Senate Bill 33 reforms medical malpractice laws to ensure greater access to high quality, affordable medical care in North Carolina – this will attract doctors, bring new jobs and make health care more affordable and accessible.
- Senate Bill 8 eliminates the cap on innovative public charter schools which will increase educational opportunities for our kids and give parents the freedom to choose a school that best meets their children’s needs.
- Senate Bill 34 allows citizens to stand their ground and defend themselves when an intruder unlawfully enters their home, vehicle or place of business.
Thoughts on the state health plan
As of the first day of legislative session in January, there was a $500 million shortfall in the state health plan – this in addition to the multi-billion dollar budget deficit the state is currently facing. And unfortunately for years the plan has been unstable and has usually required a transfusion of $400-$600 million in tax dollars each biennium. It is clear that this problem necessitates action – it would be irresponsible to continue on as we have and would risk state employees being able to count on a sustainable and solvent health plan in the future.
In light of the budget deficit, we simply cannot afford to use more money from the general budget to cover health benefits. Under Senate Bill 265, state employees will begin to pay monthly premiums of $21 per month for the best coverage plan, and about half that for the basic plan. As promised, retired state employees will be offered a no-premium option and will pay a small premium for the 80/20 coverage plan.
While this is a decision that no one relishes, the state does not have unlimited resources. We are doing everything we can to keep costs low and mitigate impacts to state employees. In passing Senate Bill 265, the Senate has supported the best option to keep the state health plan afloat while keeping costs as low as possible for the thousands of North Carolinians who devote and have devoted their lives to public service.
Tell a student
The Senate Page Program allows high school students to witness North Carolina government first-hand. Pages assist NC Senators and legislative staff in both committee meetings and the Senate Chamber. Pages serve one week during the legislative session. Interested students should visit the North Carolina Senate Page Program link or contact my Legislative Assistant, Shelly Carver, at 919-733-3460.
Session may adjourn by July 1 so subsequent weeks may become unavailable. All weeks during the month of June have already filled. The NC Senate has a great need for pages in April and May.
As always, I hope you will let me know your thoughts on any of the items in this newsletter or any other issues you feel are important. Thank you for the opportunity to continue representing you in the North Carolina Senate. I hope you have a great week.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 8 March 21, 2011
Dear Friends,
As you might expect, most of last week’s efforts were devoted to balancing the state budget. I am continuing to work with my colleagues on crafting a responsible budget that puts more money in the pockets of North Carolinians. Much of this hard work is done out of the limelight, often in early-morning meetings. It’s a grueling process that doesn’t garner much positive attention from the media or our Democratic critics.
Despite rumors to the contrary, no decisions have yet been made about programs cuts or consolidations. But our top priority is still cleaning up the financial mess we’ve inherited while keeping the promise we made to North Carolinians NOT to raise taxes. I appreciate you continuing to share your ideas and recommendations on how we can best use our limited resources to serve the people of this state.
Devoted to education
Education is a right of North Carolina citizens under our state Constitution, and I am unequivocally dedicated to providing a world-class education for our children. We all know that education is the foundation of a strong economy, and equipping our students with the tools they need to succeed in the global marketplace is vital to economic recovery in North Carolina.
To that end, legislation focused on funding education in the classroom, not on wasteful projects and a bloated bureaucracy, must be priority one during these tough economic times. For far too long, those in charge, beholden to powerful special-interest groups and unions, have thrown money at our “education system.” In the process, they created a top-heavy, overblown bureaucracy that does not serve our children well. Again, we must concentrate education spending on the classroom, not on wasteful projects, non-essential programs, and redundant administrative positions.
The budget for education that Governor Perdue presented a few weeks ago is irresponsible. It’s a raw deal for our kids – and for teachers. By redirecting hundreds of millions of dollars to counties, the governor is punting the tough choices. Her plan would force counties to raise property taxes, cut teachers, or both. That’s why the budget you’ll see from the General Assembly will look very different from the Governor’s proposal.
Your input needed on regulations
You might remember that earlier this session I co-sponsored a joint resolution (SJR 17) to establish the Joint Committee on Regulatory Reform. Like most of you, I believe the best thing government can do to foster job creation and private sector growth is to get out of the way – and this committee is tasked with leading that effort, by scrutinizing state regulations on the private sector and targeting outdated rules and regulations that should be eliminated. The committee will host meetings across North Carolina to garner feedback from the public on burdensome state rules and regulations.
The listening tour schedule is available in its entirety is online at www.ncleg.net/regreform. I plan to attend the public meeting in the west on April 15th at 1:00 PM at Blue Ridge Community College, and I hope to see some of you there, too. If you cannot make the meeting, but would still like to provide input, you may do so at the committee’s website or by sending your written comments to Regulatory Reform Comments, 16 West Jones Street, Room 2007, Raleigh, N.C. 27601.
Stay involved
The deadline for bill filing at the legislature is this week. If you would like to review the list of legislation I am sponsoring this session, please feel free to reference the “Introduced Bills” section on my profile at the General Assembly’s website.
As always, I hope you will let me know your thoughts on any of the items in this newsletter or any other issues you feel are important. Thank you for the opportunity to continue serving you in the North Carolina Senate. I hope you have a great week.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 7 March 14, 2011
Dear Friends,
We all remember too well the tax-refund debacle of last year. Some families didn’t receive their checks until months after the tax filing deadline. Republican legislators, like so many of our citizens, were outraged, and we are committed to keeping history from repeating itself. North Carolinians deserve their money promptly.
But we learned last week that Governor Perdue has again put those refunds at risk by proposing illegal money-transfer schemes to pay for them. Instead of borrowing from the private sector, as the Treasury Secretary indicated in January they would do, the Governor wants to divert money from funds we need to pay debt to the federal government.
The non-partisan professional staff at the General Assembly says this is a clear violation of the state Constitution. It also is a strong indicator of the mentality that has permeated state government for decades.
To ensure citizens are paid quickly, we’ve given the governor a viable solution: Senate Bill 13. The bill would save nearly $800 million in the current fiscal year, which will help us prepare to balance next year’s budget, and give the governor immediate cash flow to support refund checks.
The governor irresponsibly vetoed the bill last month. We overrode that veto in the Senate last week, and we hope she’ll allow four of her Democratic colleagues in the House to vote to override. The people of North Carolina deserve to be paid, and they deserve to be paid legally and responsibly.
Protecting health care freedom
The governor last weekend vetoed House Bill 2, an important measure that would allow North Carolinians to opt out of parts of President Obama’s federal health care law, including a mandate that every citizen purchase health insurance or be criminalized. We found it interesting that a bill the governor previously said wasn’t worth a battle received her veto stamp, on the heels of a White House meeting with President Obama. We think the governor should do what’s best for North Carolina, not what’s best for her political patrons in Washington. The N.C. House failed to override the veto. But rest assured: We will do all we can to drive down health care costs and make it more accessible for all North Carolinians, and we’ll do it without treading on personal freedoms.
Balancing the budget
Our Appropriations subcommittees are still hashing out ways to restructure state government to make it more efficient, and ways to balance the budget without raising taxes. How will we do it? Right now, everything is on the table. What we know for sure is that we will not revert back to the destructive tax-and-spend policies that put us in a financial mess, left so many North Carolinians unemployed, and saw our school dropout rates increase. We’re going to climb out of the hole we’ve inherited and change the way state government operates. Right-sizing it will create new jobs, improve the quality of our classrooms, and give North Carolinians more freedom.
Important links
Senate Bill 13 – The Balanced Budget Act of 2011
House Bill 2 – Protect Health Care Freedom
Thank you as always for your interest in state government. In the meantime, please contact me if I can be of help.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 6 March 7, 2011
Dear Friends,
Like most of you, I was disappointed to learn over the weekend of Gov. Perdue’s veto of House Bill 2, the Protect Health Care Freedom Act. Despite previously saying the bill was “not worth a battle,” Gov. Perdue gave the bill the veto stamp on the heels of her White House meeting with President Obama.
In spite of the Governor’s disappointing actions, we know that voters elected new leadership in the General Assembly to make positive change. You expect us to rein in spending, correct the failed policies of the past decade, and reinvent state government.
That’s exactly what we’re working to accomplish, with or without the support of Gov. Perdue. Last week, we passed bills that reduce government spending, make health care more affordable and stop local governments from controlling your private property.
Balancing the State Budget
Balancing next year’s budget remains our chief concern. We all remember Gov. Perdue’s veto of Senate Bill 13, a responsible bill that would have helped us balance the budget by saving hundreds of millions of dollars now. The veto was a political move by the governor, who said she couldn’t give up money from “economic development” funds, even though the money was unspent and not designated for any job projects.
So we passed another savings bill last week – SB 109 – that directs the governor to find the areas she wants to cut. It passed with huge bipartisan support. The governor will sign it if she’s really serious about trimming state spending and making government more efficient.
Medical Malpractice Reform
Unfair malpractice lawsuits cost taxpayers billions of dollars every year. In North Carolina, those lawsuits either drive our doctors to other states where they can practice more effectively, or force them to administer unnecessary tests and procedures that cost taxpayers more time and money. It’s one of the highest, but hidden, costs of our broken health care system. We passed SB 33 to crack down on the amount of money juries can award for damages that can’t be measured, such as pain and suffering. The bill still allows patients to recover all medical costs and lost income, and claim more than 12 times the state’s average annual income in other “noneconomic damages.”
North Carolinians suffer in a lottery-like system that lets trial lawyers win big while doctors flee to other states. This bill will make health care more accessible for everyone, especially those in rural and low-income areas. And it will help attract hundreds of new jobs.
Stopping Involuntary Annexation
Because government shouldn’t have unrestricted control over your private property, we passed SB 27. It halts forced annexation until July of 2012. That gives lawmakers time to hash out fair policies that uphold someone’s individual freedom. North Carolina is one of the few states that allow its cities and towns to force residents to pay thousands of dollars for new property taxes and public services, such as water and sewer. These costs often are imposed on low and middle-income families that can’t afford them.
State government for years has operated under the assumption that more spending will solve problems and improve services. These big-spending policies have proven ineffective and irresponsible – they’re forcing us to make tough decisions to right-size state government. Our policies, by contrast, will put more money in your pockets and give you more freedom to make your own decisions.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Senator Ralph Hise, Jr., Keynote Speaker at the 2011 Reagan-Lincoln Luncheon
This Week in Raleigh
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460 E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 5 February 28, 2011
Dear Friends,
Last week at the General Assembly, a glaring reality became even more apparent: there’s a philosophical divide between lawmakers clinging to failed policies that put North Carolina at risk, and those of us determined to responsibly reverse course.
Many were up in arms after Republicans released our targets for next year’s budget. Ours would spend significantly less money – fewer of your tax dollars – than Governor Perdue’s budget. It would make government leaner, and more efficient. And, most importantly, it lowers taxes. It puts more money in your pockets, giving your families and businesses more freedom and opportunity to prosper.
Why would anyone be upset about lower taxes? Because those lawmakers who for years have glutted state government on your dime believe there are government solutions to almost any problem. And they’re committed to keeping and growing many of the failed government programs they prize, despite the huge budget mess they’ve created.
That’s why on Tuesday, Governor Perdue vetoed the Balanced Budget Act of 2011 (SB 13), which gave her the authority she requested to cut $400 million in the current fiscal year and target another $400 million in immediate savings to help tackle next year’s budget. SB 13 is a responsible bill that helped balance next year’s budget by saving hundreds of millions of dollars now – without hurting our classrooms. The governor’s veto showed she would rather play politics than make the tough decisions necessary to fix state government.
That’s also why she broke her promise to end the taxes she raised two years ago. Her budget would take more than $700 million of your money to fill the budget gap she and her colleagues created – and it saddles local governments with hundreds of millions of dollars in new costs, which will likely result in more high taxes.
You put us in charge to correct those policies of the past and change the nature of state government. That’s exactly what we’re doing. Although a challenging road lies ahead, full of controversial cuts and tough decisions, we refuse to reach deeper into your pockets to balance the budget, especially as so many families struggle to recover from the economic downturn.
Senate Bill 8 – No Cap on Charter Schools
Parents will soon have more choice and control in their children’s public education following the Senate’s approval of legislation eliminating the 100-school cap on public charter schools. There already are 99 public charter schools in North Carolina, which do not meet the demands of about 20,000 students on a waiting list.
The Senate passed SB 8 with bipartisan support. In addition to removing the 15-year-old cap, it creates a North Carolina Public Charter Schools Commission to review applications for new schools, grant and revoke charters based on school performance, and provide general oversight for charter schools. The new commission would fall under the State Board of Education, which is able to veto the commission’s decisions with a ¾ majority. The bill also preserves a current requirement that a charter school’s student body represent the racial and ethnic makeup of its community.
Removing this arbitrary cap on public charter schools will increase educational opportunities for our students and give parents the freedom to choose a school that best meets their children’s needs.
Senate Bill 34 – The Castle Doctrine
On Thursday, the Senate tentatively approved a bill that allows citizens to stand their ground and defend themselves with deadly force when an intruder unlawfully enters their home, vehicle or place of business.
Under current law, citizens may be required to prove an intruder intended to harm or kill them or commit a felony before using deadly force to protect themselves and their property. Otherwise, they could be subject to criminal and civil penalties. The Castle Doctrine (SB 34) establishes that an unlawful entry in and of itself endangers the victims and provides legal justification for a forceful response.
All of these measures, and others we’re supporting, have a common theme: they uphold your individual liberty, and give you the freedom to make your own choices.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
1026 Legislative Building, Raleigh, NC 27601
Phone: (919) 733.3460
E-Mail: Ralph.Hise@ncleg.net
Volume 1, Issue 4 February 21, 2011
Dear Friends,
Governor Perdue’s budget proposal, the State of the State address, and health care reform were the highlights last week at the General Assembly. Senate Republicans tentatively passed bills that will allow you to opt out of the overreaching federal health care law. We also made it clear that a budget with tax increases won’t pass our chamber, despite Governor Perdue’s recommendation. In Senator Berger’s response Monday night to the governor’s State of the State address, he outlined a vision for North Carolina that scales back the size and scope of state government. We’ve all tightened our belts as the economy took a bad turn. It’s time for government to do the same. That’s why we’ve quickly taken action on these key issues.
The voters in November sent a clear message to elected officials – they want the budget balanced without raising our taxes. Governor Perdue sent a message back to voters Thursday – she’s balancing the budget by raising taxes.
The governor’s proposed budget keeps a sales tax she promised would be temporary. As you know, few “temporary” taxes are short-lived. But Perdue assured us two years ago hers would actually be temporary. When a reporter asked her why North Carolinians should believe it, she replied, “because I’m the governor.”
Perdue even made it a point to say last December “I don’t know how to spell tax increase.”
Apparently, she learned how to spell it. And like many of us feared, she’s breaking a big promise. Senate Republicans won’t include that tax increase in our balanced budget, because we’re determined to get our financial house in order by cutting back, not by reaching into your pockets.
Health Care Protection Act
To give you freedom to choose the health care that’s best for your family, Senate Republicans passed the Health Care Protection Act. The bill will allow North Carolinians to opt out of a section of the new federal health care law that fines or punishes citizens for not buying insurance. We don’t think the federal government should mandate anyone purchase a product. Health insurance policy should be left to the states. Ultimately, the courts should overturn the law and Congress should start fresh with a bill that doesn’t trounce on your personal liberty.
Up Next
This week, we’ll work on passing common-sense tort reform that will help lure the best and brightest doctors and drive your health care costs down. We’ll work on a moratorium on forced annexation as well as the bill that lifts the arbitrary cap on innovative public charter schools. And we’ll keep working to make government smaller and more efficient.
Stay Involved
If you are not already familiar with it, the General Assembly website is a terrific resource for following the progress of proposed legislation. You can use the website to track bills, receive meeting notices, and even listen to real-time audio of the House and Senate in session and many committee meetings.
As always, I sincerely appreciate your interest and welcome your input during this legislative session. Please know that I am reading and considering your emails, letters and phone messages communicating your positions on important issues. I hope you will continue to contact my office to share your questions, concerns and suggestions as we move forward.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
47th District, North Carolina Senate
Volume 1, Issue 3
February 14, 2011
Dear Friends,
Last week was a busy week in the General Assembly – in fact, according to a report by the Charlotte Observer’s Jack Betts, we may be off to the fastest start ever. Read on below to see what legislative action has been taken as we work toward helping North Carolina families and businesses thrive.
Senate Bill 13 – The Balanced Budget Act of 2011
With Senate Bill 13, Republicans legislators showed we’re serious about balancing next year’s budget in a way that helps the private sector and minimizes harm to school teachers and state workers.
The House and Senate both passed the bill, which saves as much as $400 million in unspent money this year and gives the governor the authority to cut another $400 million. With the state facing a multi-billion dollar deficit next year, the Balanced Budget Act of 2011 would help ease the pain ahead.
These cuts don’t hurt our school teachers or rank-and-file state employees, yet our Democratic colleagues have balked at the measure. They wrongly argue it would hurt job-creation by saving money from government incentive programs. We urge the governor to sign the bill, and show North Carolinians she’s serious about getting our financial house in order. Irresponsible budgets passed by Democrats over the past few years have brought us to this point. We hope they will help correct past mistakes. Closing the budget gap remains our top priority.
Regulatory Reform
The Senate also signed off on bills that will ease burdens on businesses. I co-sponsored a joint resolution (SJR 17) that establishes a committee of House and Senate members to scrutinize all outdated rules and regulations that unelected bureaucrats impose on the private sector. I am also a co-sponsor of Senate Bill 22, which prohibits state agencies from crafting new regulations. For too long, our businesses have been hindered by these costly restrictions. Over the past 10 years, government agencies have created or changed more than 15,000 rules – many of which are unnecessary and burdensome.
Health Care
This week, the Senate will take up the Health Care Protection Act. That bill has passed the House, and would send a clear message to Washington that North Carolinians want the freedom to choose their own health coverage. The federal health care law would bust the state’s budget by adding thousands to our Medicaid rolls, and it would put a massive burden on North Carolina businesses. We’re letting lawmakers in Washington know they should repeal the law and start over with a bill that doesn’t burden citizens and encroach on our right to make personal choices.
Drug Laws
The Senate also passed a bill that bans synthetic drugs. These substances can have the same harmful effects of drugs that have long been illegal. Passage of SB 9 was an important step to getting these dangerous drugs out of stores.
Gov. Perdue’s “State of the State” – And the Republican Response
Tonight, Gov. Beverly Perdue will give her State of the State address to legislators, and Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) will give the Republican response. Gov. Perdue will address a joint session of the General Assembly in the House chamber at 7:00, followed by Sen. Berger’s remarks at 7:45. Television coverage begins at 7:00 on UNC-TV.
The governor also plans to deliver her budget proposal later in the week. We look forward to partnering with Gov. Perdue to balance our budget and make North Carolina a better place to live.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
This Week in Raleigh
Legislative Update from Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
Volume 1, Issue 2
February 4, 2011
Dear Friends,
In the first full week of the 2011-2012 legislative session, Senate Republicans got to work fulfilling our promises to rein in excessive government spending and balance next year’s budget without raising taxes. Already, my colleagues and I have supported initiatives to help the people and businesses of North Carolina thrive.
Our primary task remains balancing next year’s budget and closing a projected $3.7 billion shortfall. Eliminating the budget deficit is essential to fostering a strong business climate that helps the private sector create jobs. That’s why we this week tentatively approved the Balanced Budget Act of 2011 (SB 13). It is a bill that gives Gov. Bev Perdue the one-time authority to cut $400 million out of the current fiscal year’s budget. We know that’s not enough, and in order to save more money, we’re proposing an additional $400 million in cuts and savings this year to bank additional dollars and help smooth the upcoming budget process.
Those cuts won’t come easy. These are historically tough times, and we’re making tough choices. Though everything will be on the table, we are confident that our actions this week will minimize harm to school teachers and rank-and-file state workers, and help make things easier for private sector businesses to grow, prosper and create new jobs. But there is no question that state government agencies and programs will have to do more with less, just as North Carolina families and businesses are cutting back during these tough economic times.
Already, Republican Senators have introduced bills that will ease burdens on businesses caused by unnecessary rules and regulations. This week, I co-sponsored a joint resolution (SJR 17) that would establish a committee of House and Senate members to scrutinize all outdated rules. Senate Bill 22, also filed this week, prohibits state agencies from crafting new regulations that impose costs on businesses or citizens.
We remain committed to eliminating the Democrats’ “temporary” tax hikes this year. As you know, North Carolina’s tax rates are the highest in the Southeast and among the highest in the nation. With nearly 10 percent of North Carolinians unemployed, we must lower taxes to be competitive for business expansions that will bring much needed private-sector jobs. Most job growth occurs in the private sector without governmental “incentives.” Creating an attractive tax and regulatory environment is the most effective action government can take.
Health Care
Soon, we’ll take up the Health Care Protection Act. That bill passed in the House last week, and would send a clear message to Washington that North Carolinians want the freedom to choose their own health coverage. The federal health care law would bust the state’s budget by adding thousands to our Medicaid rolls, and it would put a massive burden on North Carolina businesses. We’re letting lawmakers in Washington know they should repeal the law and start over with a bill that doesn’t burden citizens and encroach on individual liberty.
Charter Schools
Lifting the cap on charter schools still is a high priority for us. On Tuesday, a Senate subcommittee will consider a bill that does just that. Removing the cap would increase the educational opportunities for North Carolina children and allow parents the option to choose a school that best meets their kids’ needs. While we know there are additional policy considerations to be examined, this bill represents a positive first step toward facilitating choice for families.
Drug Laws
The Senate this week continued to work on cracking down on drugs that mimic marijuana and can have harmful effects. One of our Judiciary committees passed a ban on the synthetic drugs. It’s an important step in restricting access to the dangerous substances.
It was a busy week. We are excited and energized about the progress being made and are confident these measures will help get North Carolina back on the path to economic recovery and prosperity.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise
47th District
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
From Senator Ralph E. Hise, Jr.
District 47, NC
Volume 1, Issue 1
Dear Friends,
Wednesday, January 26, 2011 was the historic first day of the 2011-2012 legislative session. For the first time since 1870, Republicans now lead both chambers in the North Carolina General Assembly. Senator Phil Berger was elected President Pro Tempore of the North Carolina Senate and Rep. Thom Tillis was elected Speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives. Republicans assume leadership positions at a time of great challenges and understand the tremendous responsibility the voters have placed on our shoulders by electing us to serve.
Opening day also marked the official swearing-in of all members of the North Carolina General Assembly and many constituents, friends, and family members were present to take part in history. Our new Senate includes 15 new members from the mountains to the coast including 13 Republicans. They have already been working hard at addressing the major issues in North Carolina.
On Thursday, Senators received their Committee assignments. I am honored to serve as Co-Chair of the Pensions & Retirement and Aging committee, Vice Chair of the Insurance committee and as a member of the Commerce, Program Evaluation, Redistricting and Transportation committees.
The list of important goals for the Senate during this session is long. However, our primary task must be to address a $3.7 billion budget deficit if we expect to see private sector job growth resume in our state. Our population is growing but job creation in North Carolina is simply not keeping pace. Constant overspending, over-taxing and over-regulating are killing jobs and driving employers elsewhere. In order to revitalize our economy, we must fix our budget and reduce the overall size of state government. State government and state employees will have to do more with less. It’s not going to be easy, but streamlining state government will pay dividends in the long run. Click here to view a segment about the budget situation on the television program, NC Spin.
Another important objective the Senate plans to address soon is to lift the cap on charter schools. Doing so will increase the educational opportunities for North Carolina children and allow parents the option to choose a school that best meets the needs of their kids.
On the House side, Republicans are working on the Health Care Protection Act, which according to Speaker Tillis will “send a clear message to Washington that the federal health care law must be repealed and replaced with a fiscally-sustainable alternative.” In addition, they plan to introduce legislation requiring state voters to present identification cards every time they vote in order to prevent fraud.
The 2011-2012 legislative session promises to be one of unparalleled importance. Lawmakers have the opportunity to solve many longstanding problems. We look forward to working with all of our state’s elected officials to move our state toward growth, greater opportunity, and a better quality of life for all North Carolinians.
Best regards,
Senator Ralph Hise, Jr.
