Rep. Jay Adams

Maddy summaryThis bill amends the state constitution to eliminate the literacy test requirement for voting. By removing this specific provision, the legislation ensures that all eligible citizens can vote regardless of their reading or writing abilities. The change directly affects voters who previously might have been disenfranchised by this barrier. It does not alter other voting qualifications or the overall structure of the election process.

Maddy summaryThis bill establishes a new Transportation Emergency Reserve fund of $125 million to help North Carolina cover costs during major disasters, with funds accessible only after a federal declaration and subject to strict reporting requirements. It also creates a pilot program allowing the Department of Transportation to use a specific "Progressive Design-Build" procurement method for up to five projects under $500 million, where contractors are selected based on qualifications before finalizing costs. Additionally, the legislation authorizes the department to increase the project cap for this pilot program, enabling larger infrastructure initiatives to be tested under this new delivery system.

Maddy summaryThis bill designates Jockey's Ridge in Nags Head as a unique coastal geological area of environmental concern. It establishes specific rules for development within the site, requiring permits for sand removal projects that exceed ten cubic yards per year. Any sand removed under these permits must be returned to designated areas within the Jockey's Ridge State Park. Additionally, the legislation prohibits development activities that would significantly block the natural movement of sand, with limited exceptions for essential infrastructure and maintenance.

Maddy summaryThis bill, known as the Second Amendment Financial Privacy Act, prohibits payment card networks from using special codes to track purchases of firearms or ammunition at merchants in North Carolina. It also bans these networks from maintaining records that identify individuals who own firearms within the state. The law applies to entities that process electronic payments, such as credit card companies, but excludes federally insured banks and credit unions. If a payment network violates these rules, the Attorney General can impose fines of up to $10,000 per violation, and affected merchants or customers can sue for similar damages plus legal fees. The legislation aims to prevent the surveillance of lawful gun purchases and ensure that firearms merchants are not discriminated against based on their business type.

Maddy summaryThis amendment to the 2024 Appropriations Act reallocates $500,000 within the state education budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The funds are moved from the SME Prime program to STEM West, Inc. to support science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education opportunities for students at all levels. This change directs the money toward fostering partnerships between students and industries while reducing the specific allocation previously designated for SME Prime.

Maddy summaryThis bill, titled the Health Care Omnibus, introduces several changes to North Carolina's healthcare regulations. It requires doctors and pharmacists to inform patients receiving opioid prescriptions about the risks of overdose, prevention methods, and the availability of reversal drugs. Additionally, the legislation clarifies that Medicaid benefits will continue for a limited time after individuals are released from prison or other incarceration facilities. The bill also expands access to mental health services by allowing reciprocal licensing for marriage and family therapists, reducing regulatory hurdles for master's level psychologists, and encouraging the use of tribal health facilities.