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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref to the Com on Appropriations, if favorable, Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House2026-04-30

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

The First in Flight Act appropriates $175.1 million in state funding for the 2026-2027 fiscal year to support North Carolina's aerospace industry through airport infrastructure grants, community college workforce training programs, apprenticeships, dual-enrollment education pathways, university research funding, and supply chain support services.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill capitalizes on North Carolina's historic aviation legacy and positions the state to attract aerospace manufacturing and research investments that create high-wage jobs.
• •They contend that targeted investments in workforce development, apprenticeships, and infrastructure address industry-identified needs and enable communities across the state to participate in aerospace sector growth, while university partnerships and research funding strengthen innovation capacity.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents may question whether $175.1 million in nonrecurring funds represents the most efficient use of state resources, particularly given other budget priorities.
• •They might raise concerns about whether public funding for apprenticeships and infrastructure should primarily benefit private aerospace companies, whether outcomes can be measured and tracked effectively, and whether funds could achieve comparable economic benefits if allocated to other sectors or needs.