Today's NC Political News briefs
Judicial nomination, summer food benefits, hurricane preparation and legislative action
North Carolina officials announced several statewide government and policy updates this week, including a judicial nomination, summer food assistance for children, hurricane season preparation reminders and pending legislative committee action on education and public workforce measures.
Stein nominates Caitlin M. Poe for Special Superior Court judgeship
Gov. Josh Stein announced June 1 that Caitlin M. Poe has been nominated to serve as a Special Superior Court judge.
The nomination would fill the vacancy created by the retirement of A. Todd Brown. Special Superior Court judges hear cases assigned by the chief justice and may serve in courts across the state.
SUN Bucks benefits to reach more than 1 million North Carolina children
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services announced June 1 that the first round of 2026 SUN Bucks benefits will reach more than 1 million children across the state.
The department said $121 million will be distributed to eligible families in the first issuance. SUN Bucks provides food assistance to help families with grocery costs during the summer months, when children are out of school.
State officials urge hurricane season preparation
Gov. Josh Stein’s office and emergency management officials urged North Carolinians to prepare as the 2026 Atlantic hurricane season begins.
State officials noted that federal forecasters predict a below-normal season, but said residents should still prepare because a single storm can cause major damage. Officials encouraged residents to review emergency plans, assemble disaster supplies and stay alert for weather updates.
House committee to consider resolution on U.S. Department of Education
The House Education-K-12 Committee was scheduled to consider House Joint Resolution 1030, titled “US Department of Edu.,” on Tuesday.
The bill page identifies the measure as a joint memorializing resolution involving education and the General Assembly. Memorializing resolutions generally express a legislative position or request rather than changing state law directly.
Senate committee to hear Public Workforce Modernization Act
The Senate State and Local Government Committee was scheduled Tuesday to hear Senate Bill 1041, titled the “Public Workforce Modernization Act.”
The bill concerns public workforce matters and was listed on the committee calendar for consideration. Additional details would depend on the bill text, committee discussion and any proposed changes considered by lawmakers.
DEQ seeks applicants for Coastal Reserve advisory committees
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality announced June 1 that the N.C. Coastal Reserve and National Estuarine Research Reserve is accepting applications for local advisory committees.
The committees advise on matters involving 10 coastal reserve sites. DEQ said the committees help provide local input on management, research, education and stewardship of reserve areas.
DEQ announces $1.6 million flood resilience project in Bladenboro
The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality announced May 29 a $1.6 million nature-based flood resilience project in Bladenboro.
The project is intended to create floodplain storage and restore natural streamflow in downtown Bladenboro. State officials said the work is part of broader efforts to reduce flood risk and improve community resilience.
DPS schedules NC S.A.F.E. Week of Action news conference
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety posted a media advisory May 29 for a Greenville news conference tied to NC S.A.F.E. Week of Action.
The initiative is connected to firearm safety outreach. State officials were expected to discuss safe firearm storage and related public safety efforts.
Agriculture Department announces youth livestock scholarship recipients
The North Carolina Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services announced May 29 that 33 students were selected for 2026 N.C. State Fair Youth Livestock Scholarships.
The scholarships recognize students who participate in youth livestock programs. The department said the program supports students involved in agriculture and livestock education.
DPI promotes NC SUN Meals summer programs
The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction promoted NC SUN Meals programs May 28, highlighting free meals and activities available to children and teens during the summer.
The program is part of summer nutrition efforts intended to help students access food when school is not in session.
