A North Carolina House Select Committee is recommending broad changes to the state's mental health and criminal justice systems to reduce violent incidents and address untreated mental illness. The committee aims to improve access to mental health services, increase the mental health workforce, and enhance data collection and sharing between state agencies. [... more]

A new Blue Ribbon Commission on Public Education has been formed in North Carolina to study the state's school system, examining areas such as teacher training, student achievement, and accountability measures. Meanwhile, concerns are emerging around Medicaid fraud, with a recent scheme exposing improper enrollment and potential fraud during the sign-up process. Additionally, Western North Carolina is still recovering from Hurricane Helene, with a significant funding shortfall for water infrastructure repairs. [... more]

The US Supreme Court ruled 6-3 against the Trump administration's tariff policies, limiting the president's authority to impose tariffs under the International Economic Emergency Powers Act. This decision has significant implications for trade policy and the separation of powers between the executive and legislative branches. Meanwhile, a task force in North Carolina is exploring ways to overhaul the state's school accountability system, which relies heavily on end-of-grade and end-of-course assessments. [... more]

The Republican party has gained an advantage in North Carolina, with more registered Republicans than Democrats. This shift has implications for the state's politics, particularly with the increasing number of unaffiliated voters. Meanwhile, a report from the state auditor's office has raised concerns about the North Carolina Education Lottery, highlighting a lack of transparency in how funds are allocated to public education. Additionally, the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park is preparing to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the Battle of Guilford Courthouse, a pivotal moment in the Revolutionary War, with a range of events and educational initiatives. [... more]

Pastor John Monroe emphasizes the importance of sharing the gospel and praying for the Lord to send out laborers into the harvest. He encourages listeners to display Christ's love and proclaim the good news to those around them, and to pray for wisdom and doors to open for evangelism. [... more]

The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina is on the verge of receiving full federal recognition after decades of struggle and advocacy. Meanwhile, the state's disaster relief efforts, particularly with the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency (NCOR), have been marred by bureaucratic delays and mismanagement. A new audit highlights the issues with NCOR, and a proposed bill, the Salamander Act, aims to streamline disaster recovery efforts by expediting permits for the US Army Corps of Engineers. [... more]

Many retirees struggle with rising costs and limited income, yet often overlook their home equity as a valuable resource. A reverse mortgage can provide a safer, more flexible option to tap into this asset, eliminating mortgage payments and offering a guaranteed line of credit for future expenses. Additionally, setting up a 401k plan can be a great tool for small businesses, offering tax benefits and encouraging employees to save for their future. Effective financial planning and stewardship are crucial for a secure retirement, and understanding the options available can make a significant difference in achieving long-term financial goals. [... more]

A stabbing on the Charlotte light rail has sparked outrage over immigration policies, with the suspect being a Honduran immigrant previously deported twice. The North Carolina State Board of Elections is requesting social security numbers from DMV customers to verify voter eligibility. Meanwhile, a new audit reveals mismanagement of funds and a logistical nightmare in the state's disaster recovery efforts, raising concerns about the state's ability to handle future disasters. [... more]

New laws in North Carolina take effect, including one allowing employees and volunteers at non-public schools to carry weapons on school property, and another requiring adult content websites to verify users' ages and secure written consent from individuals featured in images. [... more]

A federal government shutdown enters its eighth day, with the White House expected to announce a bailout for American farmers impacted by inflation and tariffs. The agricultural industry, North Carolina's number one industry, is struggling due to the trade war, with farmers producing tobacco, sweet potatoes, and soybeans being particularly affected. A bipartisan House committee is set to meet in Raleigh to discuss government efficiency, paralleling federal-level efforts to reform the Department of Government Efficiency. [... more]

A government shutdown has begun in the US after lawmakers failed to agree on federal funding, with many federal services remaining operational. In North Carolina, a mini-budget has been signed into law, providing $65 million for storm relief and infrastructure projects. Meanwhile, a rapid response report from the state auditor's office has raised concerns about safety on the Charlotte Area Transit System, citing a decline in armed security guards and questionable procurement practices. [... more]

The House Judiciary Subcommittee on Oversight held a field hearing in Charlotte to discuss victims of violent crime, focusing on repeat offenders and the effectiveness of the judicial system in preventing crime. Witnesses shared personal stories of loss and highlighted the need for reform in the bail system, citing the case of Irina Zaruska, a 23-year-old Ukrainian refugee who was murdered by a 14-time repeat offender. The hearing also touched on the importance of public safety, mental health issues, and crime prevention, with lawmakers and witnesses calling for changes to the current system to hold offenders accountable and protect communities. [... more]

Joseph's story in the Bible serves as a powerful example of godly wisdom in uncertain times. His preparation during years of abundance helped an entire nation weather a famine, and his legacy teaches us about planning ahead. Mark Biller joins the discussion to explore what Joseph's story teaches us about financial preparedness and spiritual opportunity. [... more]

The North Carolina legislature has given final approval to the Power Reduction Act, which eliminates the state's statutory goal to cut carbon emissions by 70% by 2030. Supporters say this policy change could save North Carolinians up to $15 billion in future energy costs and will help meet skyrocketing power demands. Meanwhile, the Foster Care in NC Act aims to modernize and strengthen the state's child welfare system through a wide-ranging set of reforms. Additionally, the Neighbor State License Recognition Act advances occupational licensing reform by allowing individuals licensed in neighboring states to apply for equivalent licenses in North Carolina without having to start the process from scratch. Wolfspeed, a Durham-based company, is one step closer to filing for bankruptcy after creditors secured a $750 million financing deal. The company manufactures wide bandgap semiconductors and has faced financial woes and layoffs in recent months. [... more]

The 2025 Atlantic hurricane season is predicted to be slightly above-average, with 13 to 19 total named storms, 6 to 10 of which are expected to become hurricanes. The North Carolina DMV is facing long-standing issues, including outdated computer systems and strained staffing levels, which are causing frustration for customers. Officials are working on solutions, including privatizing some services and modernizing systems, to improve the customer experience and efficiency. [... more]

Rob West discusses various financial topics with guests, including reverse mortgages, credit scores, emergency funds, and retirement planning, all from a biblical perspective, helping listeners make informed decisions about their finances and live out their faith in their financial lives. [... more]

A discussion about the current state of the economy, border security, and the impact of government policies on various issues, including inflation, terrorism, and gun control. The conversation also touches on the abortion debate in Arizona and the Israel-Iran conflict. [... more]

A transformed life, as described by Paul in the New Testament, extends beyond personal relationships to impact society and the workplace. Christians are called to live out their new identity in Christ, becoming salt and light in their communities, and influencing the world around them through their actions and attitudes. [... more]

North Carolina lawmakers are likely to deal with issues linked to criminal justice and law enforcement reform in the new year. Teacher unions are pushing back against school reopening, citing concerns about COVID-19 safety. Meanwhile, a western state's approach to police accountability has some lessons for North Carolina. A new merger between the John Locke Foundation and the Civitas Institute will bring together two prominent state-based free market think tanks. A philosophy professor discusses the concept of grandstanding in public discourse, where individuals use moral and political discussions to show off their own moral superiority. [... more]

A discussion on balancing public health and economic health during the COVID-19 pandemic in North Carolina, with a focus on Medicaid expansion, healthcare access, and teacher attrition rates. [... more]