THE HWY 70 CONNECTOR: May 2026 Edition

Dear Neighbor,

The legislative short session is now fully underway, and we've already hit the ground running on many of the issues that matter most to families across Lenoir, Greene, and Jones counties.

This month has been focused on a few priorities I hear about everywhere I go: keeping taxes low, investing in our schools and workforce, supporting law enforcement and first responders, and making sure Eastern North Carolina continues to have a strong voice in Raleigh. We've also made progress on the state budget, worked to strengthen Medicaid accountability, advanced property tax reforms, and continued pushing for infrastructure and economic investments that benefit our region.

At the same time, some of the most important work happens outside the legislature — meeting with local leaders, educators, healthcare professionals, students, and community members who help keep me informed about the challenges and opportunities facing our communities. Those conversations help shape the decisions we make in Raleigh every day.

Thank you for the opportunity to represent you in the North Carolina House. As always, if there's ever anything I can do to help you or your family, please don't hesitate to reach out.

At your service,

Chris Humphrey

State Representative

STATE BUDGET UPDATE

Earlier this month, the NC General Assembly reached a budget framework agreement that includes record investments in teachers, law enforcement, and state employees.

Starting teacher pay will rank #1 in the South — and major raises are included for state troopers, correctional officers, SBI agents, and local law enforcement.

We’re also continuing to deliver tax relief for the hardworking citizens of North Carolina.

The NC General Assembly’s budget agreement delivers for every North Carolinian:

      8% average pay raise for teachers

      Moving to #1 state for starting teacher pay in the Southeast

      13% pay raise for law enforcement

      Raises & bonuses for state employees

      COLA bonus for retirees

      State income tax cuts continue

This budget rewards hard work, supports public safety and education, and keeps North Carolina financially strong.

ADDITIONAL NOTE ON THE STATE BUDGET

I have heard the concerns from teachers, state employees, and state retirees — and they're valid. But before drawing conclusions, here's some context: this is a framework, not a final law, for a state of over 11 million people.

🎓 Teachers — Average 8% raise + $500–$1,000 bonus. Goal: highest starting pay in the South.

👷 State employees — 3% raise + $1,000–$2,000 bonus.

🚔 Law enforcement — SBI/ALE +20.3%, Highway Patrol +17.7%, Corrections +15.4%, Probation/Parole +10.1%.

💰 Tax cuts — 3.99% flat rate now, dropping to 3.49% in 2027 with further reductions through 2034.

Not perfect — no budget ever is. But this moves North Carolina forward. I'll keep fighting for District 12 as this process continues.

Reach out and let me know your priorities.

LIMITING PROPERTY TAX INCREASES

Eastern North Carolina families, farmers, and small business owners should not be taxed out of their homes or property because of rapidly rising valuations.

That’s why I’m proud to co-sponsor HB 1089 — a constitutional amendment requiring the N.C. General Assembly to establish limits on local property taxes.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING INFRASTRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT ACT

I'm proud to join Representatives John Bell, Robert Reives, and Carla Cunningham in introducing bipartisan House Bill 1072 — the Affordable Housing Infrastructure Development Act.

This legislation creates a revolving loan fund to help non-profit builders like Habitat for Humanity cover critical upfront infrastructure costs like water, sewer, roads, and site preparation so more of these communities can move forward across North Carolina.

By investing in infrastructure, we can help hardworking families access safe, affordable housing while supporting long-term prosperity throughout our state.

It was a special opportunity for us to host our partners from Habitat for Humanity at the N.C. General Assembly for the press conference on HB 1072. This organization is working every day to expand access to safe, affordable housing across Eastern North Carolina.

I had the opportunity to speak with Ms. Williams (pictured), a Lenoir County mother of five who now has a stable home thanks to Habitat. Stories like hers are a powerful reminder that when we invest in housing, we invest in stronger families and communities.

OPENING OF THE SEN. JIM PERRY AVIATION CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE

It was an honor to celebrate the opening of the Senator Jim Perry Aviation Center for Excellence with Lenoir Community College at the North Carolina Global TransPark!

This incredible facility represents a major investment in the future of Eastern North Carolina — creating new opportunities for students, strengthening workforce development, and supporting the continued growth of aviation and aerospace in our region.

Congratulations to LCC, Senator Jim Perry, and all the community partners who helped us make this vision a reality. The future is bright, and the sky is truly the limit for the next generation right here at home.

FULLY FUNDING & PROTECTING THE STATE'S MEDICAID PROGRAM

Earlier this month, my colleagues and I took an important step to strengthen and stabilize our state’s Medicaid program — protecting access for those who need it, while being responsible with your tax dollars.

I’m proud to have supported this balanced approach that improves care for vulnerable citizens across Eastern North Carolina while increasing accountability and transparency in the system.

✅ Targeted investment to stabilize Medicaid and ensure access to care

✅ Stronger eligibility verification to make sure benefits reach those who truly qualify

✅ Enhanced oversight to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse

Families in Lenoir, Greene, and Jones counties deserve a Medicaid system that is stable, accountable, and focused on delivering real results for the patients and taxpayers the program is intended to serve.

VETO OVERRIDE TO PROTECT EDUCATIONAL FREEDOM

This month, the NC House voted to override the Governor’s veto of House Bill 87 and stand up for North Carolina families.

Parents deserve the freedom to choose the educational environment that best meets their child’s needs. Expanding opportunity and empowering families will help students in ENC and across our state succeed.

I was proud to vote ’yes’ on this override and will continue fighting for policies that put parents and students first.

MEETING WITH CONGRESSMAN MURPHY AND LOCAL LEADERS IN LENOIR COUNTY

I was honored to join local leaders from across Lenoir County in meeting with Congressman Greg Murphy, MD. Representatives from the City of Kinston, Pink Hill, La Grange, and Lenoir County Public Schools were all in attendance for a productive discussion about the issues impacting our communities.

I also appreciated the opportunity to spend time with Lenoir County Commission Chair Linda Rouse Sutton and Kinston Mayor Kareem Moore. Strong partnerships between local, state, and federal leaders are essential as we continue working together to keep Lenoir County moving forward.

MEETING WITH DR. WARREN OF THE LENOIR COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT

It was a pleasure meeting in Raleigh with Dr. Holly Warren, Medical Director at the Lenoir County Health Department. We had an important discussion about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders and the impact these challenges have on children, families, and communities across North Carolina. I appreciate Dr. Warren’s advocacy and commitment to improving public health outcomes in Eastern NC.

MEETING WITH CHIEF JORDAN OF MAYSVILLE FIRE & EMS (JONES COUNTY)

It was a pleasure hosting Chief Michael Jordan of Maysville Fire & EMS at our legislative office in Raleigh earlier this month. We had a productive conversation about emergency services, public safety, and the challenges facing first responders in Eastern North Carolina. I appreciate Chief Jordan’s leadership and commitment to protecting lives and strengthening our communities.

NEW LICENSE PLATE AGENCY OPEN IN GREENE COUNTY

After four years without local DMV services, I’m proud to share that a new License Plate Agency is officially open in Snow Hill! This means families, seniors, and hardworking residents no longer have to travel out of county for tag renewals, registrations, and title work.

Thank you to Myranda Jeffrey and her family for stepping up to serve our community — and thanks to all the local leaders who helped us make this happen.

READ MORE >>>

CONGRATULATIONS, LCC GRADUATES!

It was an honor to attend the Lenoir Community College graduation ceremony and celebrate the Class of 2026. Congratulations to all of the graduates for their hard work and dedication in reaching this milestone.

Thank you to the faculty, staff, and families who supported these students along the way. Wishing each graduate continued success in the next chapter ahead!

ICYMI: FEATURE ON PBS NC'S STATE LINES

ON AIR 📺 ICYMI: It was a pleasure to join State Lines on PBS North Carolina — where we talk about Medicaid funding, State Budget discussions, property tax reform & more.

WATCH NOW ONLINE >>>

WELCOMING STUDENTS TO THE LEGISLATURE

It was a pleasure welcoming students from Hope Preparatory School in Kinston to the North Carolina General Assembly. I always enjoy seeing young people take an interest in state government and learning more about how decisions made in Raleigh impact communities back home. Thank you to the students, teachers, and staff for visiting. Our future is bright!

ENDORSEMENT ALERT: NC POLICE BENEVOLENT ASSOCIATION

I’m honored to receive the continued endorsement of the North Carolina Police Benevolent Association.

Our law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day, and I will always stand with those who protect and serve to keep our communities safe.

Thank you to the PBA for your trust and support. I look forward to continuing this work together for the benefit of the people of Eastern North Carolina.

ENDORSEMENT ALERT: AMERICANS FOR PROSPERITY

I’m proud to be recognized as a “Defender of Freedom” by Americans for Prosperity. I’m grateful for the opportunity to stand up for the values that matter most to the people of eastern NC — limited government, personal responsibility, and economic freedom.

Thank you to AFP for this honor, and I’ll keep working every day to protect and advance these principles for the benefit of North Carolina families.

LCPS LEGISLATIVE BREAKFAST

It was a privilege to join Lenoir County Public Schools for their Legislative Breakfast alongside local educators, county leaders, and my colleagues from the NC General Assembly. These conversations are invaluable as we work together to support our students, teachers, and staff.

The district continues to show meaningful progress — from rising graduation rates and steady academic gains, to continued recognition in STEM and digital learning. That success is a direct reflection of dedicated educators and a community that values education.

We also discussed the importance of continued investment in our schools, including competitive pay for teachers, strong resources in the classroom, and safe learning environments where students can thrive.

When school leaders, local officials, and state legislators stay engaged and aligned, our students are the ones who benefit most. I appreciate everyone who is working each day to keep our schools moving forward.

THANK YOU TO OUR NC HOUSE PAGES!

We were honored to have Christian Heath and Lexy Rouse from North Lenoir High School serving as Pages in my office earlier this month at the North Carolina General Assembly.

It’s always a privilege to welcome bright, engaged students to Raleigh and give them a firsthand look at the legislative process. Christian and Lexy represented their school and community well, and I appreciate their hard work and professionalism during their time here. Thank you both for your service!

We also had the pleasure to welcome two outstanding young women from Lenoir County to the NC House as Pages: Anna Kate Laws from Kinston, who attends Arendell Parrott Academy, and Gracyn Murphy from La Grange, who attends North Lenoir High School.

Serving as a House Page is a great opportunity to learn first-hand about the legislative process and public service. I appreciate their hard work. They represented their schools and communities very well!