Energy, billboards take spotlight as Legislature winds down
June 9, 2017
This week was a fast-paced one at the Legislature as the end of session seems to be nearing. Reports are that the state budget will be passed within a few weeks, and session rarely lasts long after that.
Help protect marine mammals from seismic testing
June 7, 2017
Seismic testing for oil and gas off the North Carolina coast can have a detrimental effect on many things - wildlife, tourism and the environment. Right now, the federal government wants your input on requests for permits that would allow an impact...
Still a mixed bag as NC House budget details revealed
June 2, 2017
The NC House has provided more details on its budget proposal and - as we heard from Cassie Gavin last week - the news is a mix of good and bad for environmental advocates. There's more money for the Department of Environmental Quality, but some...
House budget tidbits offer slightly better news for environment
May 26, 2017
Cassie Gavin, our director of government relations, reports on the state budget proposal sections just released by the House and how the environmental provisions compare to those in the Senate-proposed spending plan. She reports on the progress of...
House bill would grant special powers, compensation to billboard industry
May 23, 2017
A combination of four bills before the House would allow more tree cutting and would take regulatory and siting control away from local governments.
NC Senate budget slashes funding for environmental programs
May 15, 2017
The NC Senate's budget proposal for the 2017-2018 biennium that - despite a projected $580 million state budget surplus - would further slash positions and programs at the state’s Department of Environmental Quality instead of restoring past...
Senate overrides veto of bill limiting nuisance suits against farm, forestry operations
May 15, 2017
The NC Senate has overridden Governor Cooper's veto of House Bill 467, "Agricultural and Forestry Nuisance Remedies," a measure that would limit the discretion of the courts to compensate landowners who have suffered a loss of use or value of their...
NC Sierra Club calls for support of Cooper ag nuisance bill veto
May 5, 2017
The NC Sierra Club praised Governor Cooper for his veto of the agricultural and forestry nuisance bill, asking lawmakers to uphold his action. The measure would unfairly block citizens from seeking full legal redress for damages suffered by poorly...
North Carolinians face new offshore drilling fight
May 5, 2017
The North Carolina Sierra Club predicts a renewed fight against offshore drilling in the face of President Trump's executive order that calls for a renewed look at the federal government's offshore oil and gas development plans. "In the past,...
NC Sierrans stand - and march - together on climate change
May 4, 2017
Demonstrations, posters, artwork and performances - the movement to address climate change and environmental justice took on a tone that was equal parts festive and urgent at the People's Climate March in Washington. North Carolina Chapter Lead...