Legislative Update from Rep. Iler — February 3, 2025
Last week at the North Carolina General Assembly was the week that the newly seated House members of the 2025-2026 session began to get their committee assignments. We also could request bills to be drafted, and we heard from the managers of the various agencies involved in western North Carolina disaster relief efforts.
Prior to going to Raleigh, I was informed that I got most of the standing committee assignments that I requested. I will be a Chairman of the Transportation Committee, as well as the Transportation Appropriations Committee. That also makes me a Vice Chair of the full Appropriations Committee. I will be a member of the Education K-12 Committee, the State & Local Government Committee, and the Wildlife Resources Committee. I am satisfied with these assignments.
Since being sworn in January 8th, I have requested a local bill and two statewide bills, so far. Details will come out as they are drafted and filed, hopefully early in February. Local bills in the House must filed by March 6th and public (statewide) bills by April 3rd.
On Tuesday, the Governor hosted a reception at the mansion for the NASCAR caucus, a large group of legislators supporting NC motorsports, a $6 billion economic impact on the state. A highlight for me was shaking Richard Petty’s hand and getting a picture with him.
We had House votes on Wednesday, concerning changes to the temporary House rules. We also had a resolution honoring recently deceased Rep. Joe John, a well-respected former judge and long-term House member. We also had a meeting of the House Select Committee on Helene Recovery, of which I am a member. We heard from the Director of Governor’s Recovery Office for Western North Carolina (GROW NC), as well as the western NC Recovery Advisor. The main subject was the temporary housing situation, and they faced many pointed questions from the western members and others. We also heard from the Director of NC Emergency Management. Lastly, the Fiscal Research Division, a division of the General Assembly, presented information on federal recovery resources and the American Relief Act of 2025. I can assure the people of western NC and the other regions of the state that we will be pushing for information and action for the impacted citizens.
Committee meetings and voting sessions in Raleigh will pick up as bills are filed and budget discussions begin. During these past weeks most of us have been meeting groups and individuals in our districts to help determine priorities for the 2025-2026 session.