Speaker Tillis Calls On NAACP Leader To Apologize

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) - North Carolina's House speaker says the president of the state NAACP owes his chamber an apology for disruptive behavior in the gallery that led to seven arrests. Speaker Thom Tillis of Cornelius also told reporters today he doesn't think it's appropriate to meet with the Rev. William Barber right now because of a police investigation into his activity Tuesday. Barber and six others were arrested after a group started chanting during the floor session and were charged with disorderly conduct and trespassing. Barber has been freed following a night in the Wake County Jail. Supporters posted his $12,500 bond. The protestors were voicing opposition to proposed budget cuts they said would have a devastating impact on education, unemployment, voting activities, and other state programs. Tillis called Tuesday's protest disruptive and disrespectful of the legislature.