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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref To Com On Rules, Calendar, and Operations of the House2026-05-04

Vote Breakdown

No floor votes recorded.

Plain Language Summary

This bill increases transparency and public participation in North Carolina's state budget process by requiring at least one week of public comment time, public hearings, and committee meetings before budget votes, and by making legislative budget requests public records once the budget becomes law. The bill allocates $250,000 annually to support these new requirements.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill reduces backroom dealing and allows taxpayers to see how their money is spent and who requested specific funding.
• •They contend that greater transparency helps prevent wasteful spending, increases government accountability, and gives the public meaningful opportunities to participate in decisions that directly affect state services and taxes.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents worry that publicizing individual budget requests could discourage honest legislative deliberation, expose legislators to pressure from special interests, and slow down the budget process with additional procedural requirements.
• •They also argue the bill may reveal sensitive negotiations and strategic legislative positions, potentially weakening legislators' bargaining power during budget negotiations.