North Carolina News Summary

Governor Josh Stein has called for a special session of the North Carolina General Assembly to address urgent Medicaid funding issues, but Republican leaders have rejected this request. According to Cardinal & Pine, Speaker Destin Hall and Senate Majority Leader Phil Berger responded by stating that the governor cannot compel lawmakers to vote during a special session, arguing that the current circumstances do not warrant such a session. They criticized the governor's administration for its handling of Medicaid funding shortfalls, which they say are due to past failures to pass a budget. As a result, vulnerable residents relying on Medicaid may face cuts or delays in essential care, raising concerns about healthcare access in the state.

In Charlotte, the deployment of U.S. Border Patrol agents has sparked fear among local leaders and residents, as reported by WCNC Charlotte. Democratic officials in Mecklenburg County have expressed frustration over the lack of transparency from the federal government regarding the operation’s specifics, including the number of agents involved and the duration of their presence. Community leaders, including Charlotte City Council members, are urging calm and emphasizing the importance of supporting the immigrant community, which they believe contributes positively to local society.

Meanwhile, UNC Greensboro's Board of Trustees has approved a 3% tuition increase for both undergraduate and graduate students starting in Fall 2026, marking the first rise since 2016. As stated by WFMY News 2, this decision comes amid rising operational costs attributed to inflation. Current in-state students will not see an increase in their tuition due to North Carolina's Fixed Tuition Program, which guarantees a flat rate for four years, helping to mitigate the financial impact on students.

On the coast, the Carolina Beach nourishment project is set to begin this weekend, as covered by Coastal Review. This federally authorized project aims to place about 800,000 cubic yards of sand on the beach to combat erosion and enhance coastal protection. The work is expected to last four to five weeks, contingent on weather conditions, and local residents are advised to stay clear of construction sites during this period.

Finally, the Toys for Tots campaign is ramping up in North Carolina as local coordinators like Jonathan S. Barbee in Rowan County work to collect and distribute toys to children in need this holiday season. According to the Salisbury Post, Barbee has already placed approximately 25 to 30 collection boxes throughout the community, with plans to expand the initiative further. The program emphasizes the importance of community support in providing for children during the holidays, ensuring that families in need have access to toys and gifts.