SUMMARY: Fourteen stores in 12 North Carolina counties face fines due to price scanning errors detected in the last quarter of 2024. The incidents spanned locations in the Piedmont and Coastal Plains regions. The state Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services will conduct inspections every 60 days until compliance is achieved. Stores include Advance Auto Parts, Circle K, and various Family Dollar and Dollar General locations. Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler emphasized the importance of consumer awareness and encouraged shoppers to check their receipts and report any discrepancies to store managers. Additional penalties may be imposed for continued violations.

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SUMMARY: The North Carolina Department of Public Instruction announced a $25 million initiative to improve student achievement in rural and economically distressed communities. Funded by the Golden LEAF Foundation, the program will focus on school culture, teaching practices, math instruction, and career readiness. It will involve 20 middle schools, divided into two cohorts: 10 low-performing schools and 10 with strong programs aiming for student-centered learning. The initiative uses the Marzano High Reliability Schools framework for step-by-step improvement. Schools in rural counties with persistent Tier 1 or Tier 2 economic status can apply beginning January 13, 2025.

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SUMMARY: In his opening address, North Carolina Senate leader Sen. Phil Berger highlighted the historical significance of the Halifax Resolves and addressed current challenges in the state, notably the recovery from Hurricanes Helene and Florence. He emphasized the progress made in North Carolina over the past 14 years, crediting conservative reforms for the state’s growth from 8 million to over 11 million residents. Newly elected House Speaker Rep. Destin Hall prioritized rebuilding efforts for western North Carolina communities affected by Hurricane Helene, pledging that disaster relief would be the main focus in the ongoing legislative session. The General Assembly began its two-year session amid celebration.

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