Lisa Grafstein
Coverage of Lisa Grafstein in the Nexus archive.
- NC Senate approves ban on ‘unauthorized camping,’ new rules for property tax changes
The North Carolina Senate approved House Bill 437, requiring local governments to regulate homeless encampments and establish drug-free zones in shelters. The bill, passed along party lines, mandates that unauthorized camping in public spaces be prohibited and includes provisions for complaint processes, though critics argue it criminalizes homelessness. An amendment to fund drug education was tabled.
- NC Democrats highlight impacts on state workers’ pay due to years with no state budget
North Carolina Senate Democrats highlighted the impacts of a 1,000-day budget delay on state workers, including stagnant pay amid inflation and healthcare costs, staffing shortages in corrections, and proposed bills for wage increases, small business loans, and AI displacement assistance. They emphasized frustration with the legislature's failure to pass a budget.
- NC Senate panel resurrects ‘unauthorized camping’ homeless ban
The North Carolina Senate Judiciary committee revived a bill banning unauthorized homeless encampments outside official city-maintained sites. The amendment, attached to House Bill 437, requires local governments to provide designated camps with sanitation and safety measures, but faced Democratic criticism over practicality and regional disparities.
- North Carolina youth social media ban clears additional hurdle as it heads toward Senate vote
North Carolina's Senate Judiciary committee advanced House Bill 301, which would ban users 13 and under from 'addictive' social media apps and require parental consent for 14- and 15-year-olds. The bill defines 'addictive' platforms by features like infinite scrolling and algorithmic content, and includes amendments to prohibit data sales and algorithmic targeting for minors. Opponents argue it overreaches and could hinder educational resources.