NC Legislature Passes Bill Expanding School Vouchers and Mandating ICE Cooperation

Despite expected veto from Gov. Cooper, the bill is likely to become law due to GOP's veto-proof majority.

The bill allocates an additional $463.5 million to the Opportunity Scholarship program, eliminating a waitlist of 55,000 students.
The legislation requires county sheriffs to comply with ICE detainers for inmates suspected of serious crimes and unlawfully present in the U.S.
Republican lawmakers argue the voucher expansion will provide education options for all families, while critics say it diverts funds from public schools.
Opponents of the ICE cooperation mandate claim it will harm immigrant communities and erode trust in local law enforcement.
The bill also includes funding for Medicaid and public school enrollment growth, but does not address teacher raises.