The General Assembly reconvened on Wednesday with lawmakers filing dozens of bills on various topics. Among the first bills filed were proposals to exempt bonus pay up to $2,500, plus overtime and tips, from state income taxes, and to eliminate Daylight Saving Time in the state.

The legislature is still controlled by Republicans, but the party lost its veto-proof supermajority in the November elections. If Democratic Gov. Josh Stein vetoes a bill, both Republican and Democratic support will be needed to override the veto.

On Wednesday, the House also focused on ongoing relief efforts in western North Carolina following Hurricane Helene. The House Select Committee on Helene Recovery met to discuss the current status of recovery and the challenges ahead. The state had requested over $25.7 billion in federal funding for recovery, but so far has received only $15.7 billion.

With major priorities and urgent recovery issues at hand, the General Assembly’s 2025 session will be crucial. NFIB will be closely monitoring the session and working hard to ensure lawmakers continue to support an environment where Main Street businesses can thrive and create jobs.