30-03-2025
NC lawmakers are rushing a bill that will increase energy rates. We need to stop them
The N.C. Senate rushed through SB261, the Energy Security and Affordability Act. The bill would allow unchecked rate hikes outside of the usual regulatory process.
It would also eliminate our bipartisan law to reduce our state's carbon emissions, gutting a commitment to fighting climate change, which attributed to the unprecedented devastation of our mountain towns and destruction of coastal homes.
To reduce transparency and public feedback, lawmakers are rushing SB261 through the N.C. House. Contact your state representative to vote no.
Mark Taylor, Charlotte
I found the Mar. 24 article 'Cabarrus County Schools lack $3 million for special needs program' thought-provoking, particularly the irony and ideological perspective presented.
The opening discusses the ongoing years of frustrations and funding shortages facing special education programs, then transitions into a critique of the president's goal to dismantle the federal education department, suggesting it will exacerbate the issue.
Reorganizing the funding for education could actually be beneficial. At least, based on observations and interviews, it certainly would not hurt to explore other options, right?
Mike Howard, Marvin
Columnist Andrew Dunn took a potshot at Gov. Josh Stein after the State of the State address, saying Stein needs to be honest in discussion of prioritizing tax cuts above investments in public education. Dunn applauds the state GOP for increasing public education funding 'for over a decade.'
Odd statement. After winning a legislative majority in 2010, Republicans eviscerated public education. Funding has increased, though at levels insufficient to recapture the good schools we had. Meanwhile, Republicans hungrily await their friendly state Supreme Court tossing the 35-year-old Leandro public education funding decision. It's Dunn who needs to be honest.
Harry Taylor, Charlotte
Blessings and thanks to the Templeton family for their donation to a trust of 42 acres of land on Lake Norman. Preservation of our historic forests will be a testament to this family's generosity and foresight for generations. I hope their gift will be an example to others to preserve our forests while we can!
Laurie Carter, Matthews
The Trump administration has touted the return of free speech. There are some notable exceptions. The Associated Press was banned from White House events because they use 'The Gulf of Mexico.' Trump has spoken about revoking licenses for media outlets that don't provide pro-Trump coverage.
Military records that contain words relating to minorities and women have been flagged for deletion. Trump has threatened federal funding for universities that allow protests he doesn't care for. So free speech, as long as Trump approves of the content.
Arnie Grieves, Huntersville
As a minister with relationships with poor people, I am alarmed that our legislators are considering cuts to Medicaid. One woman who is insulin dependent and another with serious heart trouble are both part of our care circle. I urge your readers to let our Congress members know about Medicaid's lifesaving power. Our rural hospitals are barely hanging on. Cuts will hurt poor people and rural hospitals.
Pat Jobe, Forest City
State lawmakers are considering a reckless bill that would allow anyone to carry a firearm without mandatory training. Removing the requirement for a safety course makes communities less safe and increases the risk of accidental shootings.
Just as drivers must pass a test, those carrying guns should require basic safety knowledge. Supporters cite the Second Amendment, but rights come with responsibilities. The government regulates driving and heavy machinery — why should firearms be different?
This bill ignores law enforcement professionals who support training requirements. Police already face daily dangers. Untrained, armed individuals make their jobs even riskier. Law-abiding gun owners should have no issue completing a simple safety course. If we value responsible gun ownership, we must demand legislators reject SB50 before it leads to tragedy.
Thomas Uhl, Mooresville
I was planning to buy a car this year. Not now. With Trump's new 25% tariffs, I won't spend thousands more for that same car. Talk about inflation. Maybe billionaires don't mind. Maybe Trump feels richer now. I sure don't. On top of everything else, the Trump administration is a total clown show. Our country's security, health benefits, Social Security and more are all going down the tubes.
Joseph Halpin, Fort Mill
