NORTH CAROLINA, USA — Senate Republicans passed Senate Bill 382 Wednesday, which includes $252 million for Hurricane Helene relief.
The bill now heads to Governor Roy Cooper for his consideration.
In October, North Carolina lawmakers approved Senate Bill 382, a sweeping measure that combines $252 million in new Hurricane Helene relief funding with significant state policy reforms. This brings the total Helene recovery allocation to $1.1 billion, including $50 million to stabilize the N.C. Office of Recovery and Resiliency (NCORR), which has faced operational challenges. Oversight of NCORR spending will now involve the State Auditor and Office of State Budget and Management.
Hurricane Relief Efforts
Sen. Kevin Corbin (R-Macon) praised the legislative response, emphasizing continued work toward rebuilding Western North Carolina after the storm’s historic $53 billion impact. Sen. Warren Daniel (R-Burke) noted the unprecedented funding speed, while Sen. Tim Moffitt (R-Henderson) stressed the urgency of addressing housing and infrastructure needs as winter approaches.
Governor Roy Cooper said, "shortchanging disaster recovery right now will have serious consequences for years to come. Legislators have put forward a bill that fails to provide real support to commuinties hit hard by hurricane Helene and instead prioritize more power grabs in Raleigh. North Carolinians recovering from unprecedented disasters should strongly urge their legislators to do their jobs and help western North Carolina rebuild."
Election Overhaul
The bill also transfers oversight of the State Board of Elections to the State Auditor’s Office, aims to shorten absentee ballot counting, and revises deadlines for absentee ballot requests. Republicans argue these changes will reduce partisan interference.
Other Provisions
Key reforms include:
- Establishing the State Highway Patrol as an independent agency.
- Requiring judicial vacancies to align with the outgoing judge’s political party.
- Funding $33 million for childcare stabilization and $7.8 million for UNC System needs.
With its blend of disaster aid and policy changes, Senate Bill 382 marks a significant moment in North Carolina governance.
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