This week in the Senate, we moved closer to finalizing the state budget. In the midst of the biggest economic crisis since the Great Depression, we are making tough choices – we have deeply cut spending, while remaining committed to passing a budget that protects education, health care, and job creation efforts.
IMPROVING PUBLIC SAFETY This week, the Senate gave final passage to sweeping probation reform to give law enforcement officers the tools they need to track and monitor probationers. Under the measure (S 920), individuals on probation must submit to warrantless searches by law enforcement officers of their vehicle if there is reasonable suspicion that the probationer is engaged in criminal activity or in the possession of a firearm, explosive device or deadly weapon. Probation officers would also be allowed access to juvenile court records under the legislation, which will allow them to better know the history of those they are supervising. Governor Perdue signed the bill into law.
FIREWORKS SAFETY When you and your family go to watch a large, professional fireworks display, you should be assured that those responsible for detonation have been trained and certified for safety. This July 4th on Ocracoke Island, four fireworks handlers died in an accidental explosion. This tragedy brought to light the glaring omission in state law that there is no statewide oversight of large fireworks transportation or detonation. Under legislation (S 563) that I supported this week, operators will be clearly defined and certified under direction of the State Fire Marshal. This legislation is critical to safeguard those who handle deadly explosives and to protect the audience as well. The measure passed the Senate and is now being considered by the House.
SALES TAX HOLIDAY, AUGUST 7-9 I wanted to remind you of the upcoming sales tax holiday. The legislature created this holiday in 2001 to give families a break on back-to-school shopping. From 12:01 a.m. Friday, August 7 until 11:59 p.m. Sunday, August 9, shoppers can buy clothing, classroom supplies, computers and other items tax-free. The sales tax holiday is another initiative that shows our commitment to helping the working families of North Carolina and especially helpful during these tough times.
During the tax holiday weekend, consumers will not pay sales tax on:
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Clothing, footwear, and school supplies of $100 or less per item
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School instructional materials of $300 or less per item
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Sports and recreation equipment of $50 or less per item
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Computers of $3,500 or less per item and computer supplies of $250 or less per item
For more information about the tax holiday, and a complete list of tax-free items, please visit the Department of Revenue’s Web site.
As always, please feel free to contact me to share your opinions on any other issue you feel is important, and thank you for the opportunity to serve you in the Senate. I hope you have a nice weekend.
Sincerely,
Senator Clark Jenkins
NC Democratic Senate Caucus, Authorized by Clark Jenkins – Opt out here
