LEGISLATIVE ACTIVITY

Budget

• The Senate and House are expected to reach a deal on the budget later today or over the weekend, with House and Senate votes on the budget conference report possible next week. 
• There are a number of issues to be included in the final budget, including a tax package, education policy reform and teacher pay increases.

Associated Press: Progress made on budget deal, votes could come next week

Transportation

I-77 Managed Lanes

• On Tuesday, it was announced the Senate would not take up legislation this session to cancel the contract for the I-77 managed lanes project north of Charlotte. 

Charlotte Observer:I-77 toll foes hit a dead end in Senate

Education

Math Standard Course of Study Revisions

• The Senate approved a bill a few weeks ago that would allow students to choose between two high school math routes, one based in a "traditional" curriculum and the other a new "integrated" course of study.
• This week the House voted not to concur on this bill, so it will go to a conference committee for the House and Senate to try to reach a compromise.

Associated Press: 2-pronged approach to high school math rejected by House

OTHER HEADLINES

• Raleigh News & Observer: House Bill 2 revisions? "Nobody really knows," speaker says
• Associated Press: Senate bill with environmental changes clears chamber
• Charlotte Observer: Bank of America, Wells Fargo would have enough capital in recession, Fed finds
• Charlotte Observer: Updated FAA policy leaves city in control of Charlotte airport
• WRAL: NC Senate Dems want to ban gun sales to those on terrorist watch list
• Associated Press: Carolinas border redraw bill among 9 signed by McCrory
• Associated Press: Funding threatened for cities ignoring state immigration law
• Charlotte Observer: McCrory, Cooper clash on House Bill 2, education in first debate
• Raleigh News & Observer: NC's US Senate race is ranked 8th most competitive