North Carolina Lawmakers Approve Private School Voucher Funding

North Carolina's House of Representatives has approved a substantial spending bill that allocates $463.5 million to private school vouchers, effectively eliminating a waitlist of about 55,000 families. The legislation, which has drawn criticism from Democratic Governor Roy Cooper, also mandates sheriffs to assist federal immigration agents, sparking concerns from immigrant advocacy groups. The bill passed with a 67-43 vote and is expected to provoke a veto, but Republican lawmakers aim to override it in the fall session. Supporters argue that the expanded voucher program promotes school choice, while opponents contend it primarily benefits families already able to afford private education. The funding surge follows the removal of income limits on voucher eligibility, leading to a dramatic increase in applications. With the new changes, families will also receive refunds for tuition already paid, further incentivizing private school enrollment.