The 2011 "Long" Session of the North Carolina General Assembly began on Wednesday, January 26, with much excitement and reticence.  The Republican Party has a majority in the House and Senate for the first time in over 100 years.  They are very excited about the opportunity but reticent because of the ominous challenge to balance the budget with a $3.7 billion "hole". 

The leadership was elected on the first day, as expected.  As of adjournment of the week's activities on Thursday, less than fifty (50) bills had been filed in each body.  Nevertheless the early pace of activity has exceeded any in memory. 

Although most of the time during the first two weeks has been spent with moving and locating to new offices, the Finance Committees have met jointly in educational sessions and the House has passed House Bill 2, "Protect Health Care Freedom," which is an attempt to repeal "Obamacare".  The Senate is expected to concur and the Governor to veto. 

Other Republican campaign promises were addressed thru House Bill 33 "State Law to Provide for Acceptable ID's" for voting purposes, House Bill 36 "Public Contracts/Illegal Immigrants", Senate Bill 37 "Eminent Domain" which would call for a vote for a constitutional amendment; and Senate Bill 27 "Involuntary Annexation Moratorium".  

Perhaps more important than the above mentioned specific legislation has been the public comments back and forth between the legislative leaders and the Governor addressing how the budget should be balanced.  Legislative leaders have asked the Governor to begin by cutting $700 million from the 2010-2011 budget.  The Republicans have vowed not to increase taxes of any type, including an extension of the 2009 "temporary" taxes.  Department heads are recommending cuts to the Governor and agency consolidation is being examined.  The Governor has even considered such things as privatization of the State controlled ABC system and legalization (and taxing) of video gaming under the auspices of the Lottery Commission.  Future reports will contain more detailed discussion as activity increases.