North Carolina historians might lay claim to the state being first in freedom for its Colonial-era declarations of independence. But the most comprehensive instrument available to measure modern-day economic and personal freedom in the 50 states says it ranks only No. 19. Will Ruger and Jason Sorens, authors of Freedom in the 50 States: An...
Media law experts believe the North Carolina Military Affairs Commission violated the spirit — if not the letter — of state laws requiring the conduct of public meetings in a transparent manner. “I feel like a judge would say this is a violation of the law,” Raleigh-based media attorney Amanda Martin said of Commission Chairman...
During a public meeting Tuesday, the N.C. Military Affairs Commission heard a presentation about the Amazon Wind Farm after members of the public left the meeting — a possible violation of the state’s Public Meetings Law. Wind farm critic John Droz had a spot reserved for 1 p.m. on the meeting’s original agenda. Carolina Journal Associate Editor...
The chairman of the N.C. Military Affairs Commission refused to allow a presentation at an open committee meeting Tuesday because a Carolina Journal reporter was in attendance. The presentation on a controversial wind energy project was on the agenda of the commission’s Executive Steering Group. But the commission’s chairman, Brig. Gen. Mabry “Bud” Martin, attempted to prevent...
While in the military, Col. John A. Nicholson worked on energy efficiency and environmental conservation initiatives. Department of Environmental Quality Secretary nominee Michael S. Regan wants the now-retired Marine Corps officer to bring that background to the agency charged with protecting and preserving North Carolina’s natural resources. Regan, although he has yet to be confirmed...
Perhaps the biggest task facing a Republican-controlled General Assembly when it returns from a two-week hiatus Wednesday is finding common ground with a new Democratic governor, and vice versa. That’s a significant challenge, considering the contentious nature of last year’s special sessions and the flurry of lawsuits that followed. Lawmakers will work toward passing a $22...
Dr. David McNelis, director of the Center for Sustainable Energy, Environment, and Economic Development at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, discusses recent technological advances in nuclear power. McNelis offered these comments during an interview for Carolina Journal Radio.
From Carolina Journal Radio Program No. 713: Much of the current energy debate in North Carolina and across the country involves solar power, wind, and natural gas. Much less attention has been paid to the future of nuclear energy. David McNelis, director of the Center for Sustainable Energy, Environment, and Economic Development at the University...
The N.C. General Assembly returns for its long legislative session with a new sparring partner in the governor’s mansion. Becki Gray, John Locke Foundation senior vice president, examines the potential impact of new Gov. Roy Cooper on the 2017 session. She also highlights lawmakers’ top priorities for the new year. Much of the current energy...
North Carolina’s legislative leaders want the incoming Trump administration to consider shutting down the $400 million, 104-turbine Amazon Wind Farm project under construction near Elizabeth City because, they say, the massive turbines would interfere with a nearby radar facility run by the military. The request came in a letter to retired Marine Corps Gen. John...
General Assembly expected to spend $200 million in state emergency funds (with $300 million more available from feds), but other issues could be discussed
