Chamber leaders in the General Assembly have announced a framework deal for a state budget, now 10 months overdue. North Carolina is the only state in the country without a new budget. We'll discuss what's in that agreement.
We'll also speak with Mecklenburg Sen. Caleb Theodros, who became the youngest member serving in the NC Senate when he was elected in 2024. Prior to representing District 41, which covers west Charlotte to Plaza Midwood, he was chair of the Black Political Caucus and a years-long community advocate.
Now, more than a year into his term, we sit to discuss his time in office so far and some bills he’s proposed, including Senate Bill 1072, which would give voters the chance to decide on decriminalizing marijuana, and Senate Bill 550, which aims to help school athletic coaches recognize and respond to student mental health needs. We’ll also hear his perspective on where his party stands after two Mecklenburg Democratic legislators left the party and the continuous challenges the minority party faces in the General Assembly.
Later in the show, we’ll discuss the newly approved Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools budget for 2026-2027. After a tumultuous two weeks, members voted unanimously to push the spending plan forward. Meanwhile, Cabarrus, Gaston and Union Counties all have budget shortfalls and are facing cuts to make up for it. We discuss how they are responding to those challenges.
GUESTS
Part 1:
Adam Wagner, reporter for NC Newsroom
Part 2:
Caleb Theodros, state senator representing district 41
Part 3:
James Farrell, education reporter for WFAE
