Executive Order No. 27: Amending and Extending the Governor's Advisory Council on Latino Affairs

September 30, 2025

Executive Order No. 27:

Amending and Extending the Governor's Advisory Council on Latino Affairs

Whereas, the Governor is committed to creating a safer, stronger North Carolina by convening community and state government leaders to invest in public education, create economic opportunity, ensure public safety, and uphold our shared values of freedom and opportunity for all; and

Whereas, the Latino community plays a vital role in the fabric of North Carolina, embodying the spirit of North Carolina Strong through resilience, innovation, and contributions that strengthen our state every day; and

Whereas, the Latino population contributes to the economic development and progress of the state by working in myriad industries, establishing small businesses, enriching North Carolina’s cultural fabric, and actively participating in civic, educational, health, military and public service, STEM, and community affairs, while also demonstrating innovation and leadership across sectors, and in public and private institutions; and

Whereas, many unique matters impact North Carolina’s Latino population, including the advancement of opportunities and the removal of barriers, as they contribute to the state’s growth and prosperity; and

Whereas, the state should promote collaboration and effective planning and delivery of services among state agencies that serve the Latino population in partnership and communication with individuals from a wide range of backgrounds and organizations; and

Whereas, Executive Order No. 136, which was issued on September 2, 1998, first established the Governor’s Advisory Council on Hispanic/Latino Affairs; and

Whereas, since its inception in 1998, the Advisory Council has subsequently been extended or reestablished by executive orders issued by previous Governors; and

Whereas, the most recent Executive Order, Exec. Order No. 235, 36 N.C. Reg. 634-636 (Nov. 1, 2021), directing the continuation of the important work of the Advisory Council expires on October 4, 2025.

Now, therefore, by the authority vested in me as Governor by the Constitution and laws of the State of North Carolina, it is ordered:

Section 1. Extending Executive Order No. 235

The Governor’s Advisory Council on Latino Affairs (“Advisory Council” or “Council”) is hereby extended as modified below.

Section 2. Membership

The Advisory Council shall consist of a maximum of thirty (30) members appointed by the Governor. Members should represent a variety of backgrounds, experiences, economic sectors, and geographic areas of North Carolina. Council members shall serve a term of two (2) years and may be reappointed to successive terms. Vacancies shall be filled by the Governor and members appointed to fill vacancies shall serve for the remainder of the unexpired term. Council members serve at the pleasure of the Governor. The Governor shall appoint a state employee as the Governor’s Designee. The Governor shall appoint two (2) Co-Chairs and one (1) Secretary from among the members.

In addition to the voting members, the North Carolina Department of Administration (“DOA”), with the support of the Governor’s Designee, shall designate deemed appropriate representatives from cabinet agencies and Council of State departments to serve as liaisons in support of the Advisory Council.

The Advisory Council shall encourage the continued engagement of former members (“alumni”) who have previously contributed to its mission. Alumni may be invited to participate in public meetings, offer insights drawn from their service, and provide mentorship to current or incoming members, thereby supporting continuity and institutional knowledge. To foster future leadership, the Advisory Council shall also identify and engage potential new members, including young professionals and community advocates, by inviting them to attend meetings, observe deliberations, and participate in select committee activities.

Section 3. Meetings

The Advisory Council shall meet quarterly or upon the call of DOA, the Governor, or the Co-Chairs.

The agenda for Advisory Council meetings shall be set by DOA and the Governor’s Designee, with the support of the Co-Chairs.

DOA, in coordination with the Governor’s Designee, shall establish the structure, committees, or other working groups aimed at advancing contributions, expanding opportunities, and removing barriers for the Latino community and shall hold meetings as needed, with the support of its leadership to fulfill its responsibilities.

Advisory Council members shall participate actively during quarterly meetings, maintain consistent attendance, and may not miss more than two (2) consecutive in-person or virtual meetings without prior notice to DOA, the Governor’s Designee, and the Co-Chairs.

Section 4. Duties

The Advisory Council shall advise the Governor on matters affecting the Latino population in North Carolina. This includes supporting state efforts to enhance cooperation and understanding, promoting opportunities, identifying challenges, and recommending solutions.

The Advisory Council shall serve as a forum for the discussion of issues and opportunities concerning the Latino community and shall support efforts aimed at improving cross-cultural relations and statewide engagement. The Council shall gather community input through public engagement efforts, such as listening sessions and outreach initiatives, to ensure that its recommendations reflect the needs and interests of Latino residents. The Council shall utilize relevant data and research to inform its priorities and assess the impact of state policies, programs, and services on the Latino population.

The Advisory Council shall submit an annual report to DOA that outlines its activities and accomplishments, identifies persistent barriers and emerging opportunities with the Latino community, and recommends short and long-term statewide policy initiatives to the Governor. DOA and the Governor’s Designee shall assist in the design, printing, and dissemination of the Advisory Council’s annual report.

The Advisory Council shall perform other duties as directed by DOA or the Governor.

Section 5. Administration

DOA shall serve as staff for the Advisory Council.  DOA, with support from the Governor’s Designee, shall guide the implementation of feasible recommendations, and provide all administrative and staff support services required by the Advisory Council. Members shall serve without compensation, but may receive reimbursement, contingent upon the availability of funds, for travel and subsistence in accordance with N.C. Gen. Stat. §§ 138-6 and 120-3.1.

Section 6. Duration

This Executive Order is effective immediately. This Executive Order shall remain in effect until September 30, 2027, pursuant to N.C. Gen. Stat. § 147-16.2(b), or until earlier rescinded.

In witness whereof, I have hereunto signed my name and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in the City of Raleigh, this 30th day of September, in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-five.

Josh Stein

Governor

Attest:

Timothy L. Crowley

Chief of Staff, Secretary of State