N.C. Gov. Josh Stein Proposes Budget For Fiscal Year 2026-2027

Stein is suggesting a 2.3 billion investment to support educators, improve student outcomes, and expand child care access.

North Carolina lawmakers are expected to pass the first budget in two-and-a-half years.

The Tar Heel state is the only one without an approved budget. Gov. Josh Stein has reportedly been working on a proposal for fiscal year 2026-2027.

Stein says they are the number one state for business, workforce development, and job growth, but there are other areas that are at risk. That includes public safety, public education, and healthcare.

Stein is suggesting a 2.3 billion investment to support educators, improve student outcomes, and expand child care access. He stated that N.C. is currently ranked 49th in the country for individual student spending.

Stein wants to raise teacher pay, provide free school breakfast, and add more support staff. He also mentioned investing in more work-force housing, raising pay for law enforcement, and fully funding medicaid.

The recommended budget also calls for additional funding, but it is up to the General Assembly’s court.