Today’s NC Political News briefs
Election officials consider permanent absentee-voting rules, health officials update food-safety guidance and the attorney general warns consumers about online freelancers.
RALEIGH — North Carolina election officials are scheduled to meet Monday morning to complete absentee-voting rules, while state health officials continue investigating elevated cyclosporiasis cases and the Attorney General’s Office warns consumers to use caution when hiring freelancers online.
Election board meets on absentee-voting rules
The State Board of Elections will hold a remote meeting at 9 a.m. Monday to consider permanent rules governing absentee-voting processes.
The tentative agenda also allows the board to appoint county election-board members if vacancies require action.
The permanent rules follow election-board discussions held last week involving voter identification, absentee ballots and other election procedures. Meeting materials will be posted in the board’s online meeting folder.
Official source: North Carolina State Board of Elections
State adds guidance to cyclosporiasis investigation
NCDHHS says 307 cyclosporiasis cases and 13 hospitalizations were reported between May 1 and July 14, with most identified cases in Wake County.
The department said the North Carolina increase does not appear connected to a multistate outbreak involving Taco Bell. Foods commonly reported during North Carolina case interviews include lettuce, parsley and cilantro, but health officials cautioned that the reports do not prove those foods caused the illnesses.
NCDHHS and the Department of Agriculture are working to trace ingredients and possible suppliers. Officials advised consumers and restaurants to consider removing or fully cooking implicated ingredients while the investigation continues.
This is a material update to the initial case report included in Friday’s NCPN brief.
Official source: North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services
Attorney general warns about hiring freelancers online
The North Carolina Attorney General’s Office is advising consumers and businesses to verify identities, references and payment terms when hiring freelancers through online platforms.
The office recommends using written contracts, avoiding large advance payments and using payment methods that offer fraud protection. Consumers should be cautious when a purported worker refuses video or telephone contact, demands payment outside a recognized platform or requests payment through gift cards, cryptocurrency or wire transfers.
Official source: North Carolina Department of Justice
