North State Journal: “Following months of negotiations between the Democratic governor and Republican legislative leaders, the final package first unveiled on Monday will now guide state spending for the next two years.
The passage of the budget, which took place in the state Senate and state House during a period of three days, became a formality once Gov. Cooper announced on Tuesday he would sign the proposal.
“This budget moves North Carolina forward in important ways. Funding for high speed internet, our universities and community colleges, clean air and drinking water and desperately needed pay increases for teachers and state employees are all critical for our state to emerge from this pandemic stronger than ever. I will continue to fight for progress where this budget falls short but believe that, on balance, it is an important step in the right direction,” Cooper said in a statement.”