North Carolina legislative leaders on Tuesday released a long-awaited $34.4 billion state budget agreement that would provide broad pay raises for teachers and state employees, continue personal income tax reductions, invest more than $700 million in Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, and expand funding for public safety, education, and healthcare programs.

When Hurricane Helene tore through the North Carolina mountains on Sept. 27, 2024, it left Lake Lure nearly unrecognizable.

Congressman Tim Moore (R, NC-14) wrote a letter urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) to finalize a permanent plan to redirect the Rocky Broad River by September 27, 2026, two years after Hurricane Helene devastated North Carolina.

The administration of Josh Stein announced the launch of a new $70 million housing recovery program aimed at rebuilding and expanding affordable rental housing across western North Carolina communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.

A major federal housing package is now heading to President Donald Trump’s desk after clearing both the U.S. House and Senate with bipartisan support, setting up potential changes that could directly affect rebuilding efforts across Rutherford County and Western North Carolina.