Statement on Gov. Cooper Refusing to Sign the State Budget into Law

Raleigh, N.C. — Statement from Senate Leader Phil Berger (R-Rockingham) on the passage of the state budget and Gov. Roy Cooper’s refusal to sign it into law:

“Today the Senate gave final approval to a budget that continues to build on the last decade of unprecedented economic growth and success in North Carolina. It addresses our state’s most pressing needs, notably bolstering our water and wastewater infrastructure systems with $2 billion.

“This was possible because of the thoughtful, fiscally responsible policies the Republican-led General Assembly initiated after decades of Democratic disasters.

“We’ve been able to infuse record amounts of funds into education, public safety, mental health needs, and infrastructure, all while drastically cutting taxes for all North Carolinians. Our formula of low taxes, responsible spending, and reasonable regulations has been successful.

“This budget is good for all North Carolinians.

“Yet, in a display of politics trumping policy, every Senate Democrat voted against increased funding for education, against pay raises for teachers and state employees, against expanding school choice to all families in North Carolina, and against supporting our rural communities with critical infrastructure.

“In an even more brazen display of political cowardice and avoiding accountability, Gov. Cooper will not sign the budget into law. It’s clear that virtue signaling and political ambition are what drives his decisions.”