This week, Raleigh has been voting on certain bills that may affect other areas of North Carolina life – including that in Asheville. For the record, we won’t be commenting on our own opinions on these laws. However, this article is instead based on what articles may get passed, and what they would mean for those living in Asheville. Remember, these laws aren’t set in stone just yet – so don’t shoot the messenger. Nonetheless, they’re still something worth thinking about and in some shape or form, may change your life at some point. These laws are as follows:

• A bill aiming to restrict state employees from discussing race has been vetoed by Governor Cooper.
• A bill prohibiting Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations in hiring and investment is on its way to the governor’s desk.
• Lawmakers in North Carolina have passed a bill that increases penalties for attacks on power stations.
• With Governor Cooper’s endorsement, online and mobile sports betting in NC has become legalized.
• North Carolina Senate Republicans have introduced a bill to diminish Governor Cooper’s authority in appointing election board members.
• A bill that limits wetland protections in North Carolina has been forwarded to Governor Cooper.
• Lawmakers in North Carolina have approved a bill that prevents local governments from imposing fuel prohibitions on energy sources.
• The legislation to ban transgender individuals from participating in sports is nearing completion in the North Carolina legislature.
• A bill in NC proposes granting police departments the ability to hire and train individuals to assist with minor traffic accidents.
• Despite Governor Roy Cooper’s veto, new abortion restrictions have been enacted in North Carolina following a Republican override.

Amongst these, there are also a few smaller issues that have been discussed. Having said this, we believed that these were the most pressing issues that may impact the largest chunk of the local population.