Today Governor Josh Stein announced that local governments in western North Carolina can apply for grants from a new $55 million state infrastructure program designed to help small businesses in the region recover from Hurricane Helene.
   
    
    Governor Josh Stein has proclaimed April as World Autism Month in North Carolina to raise awareness and recognize individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), their families, and organizations working to support them.
   
    
    Governor Josh Stein announced today more than $63 million in Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) program projects to connect 18,889 households and businesses in 30 counties to high-speed internet.  “North Carolinians’ need access to high-speed internet to connect them with friends and family, business opportunities, telehealth, and more,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Broadband is key 21st Century infrastructure, and these partnerships between counties across the state and internet providers will help connect more North Carolinians.”
   
    
    Today, Governor Josh Stein spoke to the NC Sheriffs’ Association at their annual spring conference to share his appreciation for the work they do to keep North Carolinians safe. The Governor highlighted his proposals to address staffing shortages and create a dedicated Cold Case Unit and a Fentanyl Control Unit. 
   
    
    Governor Josh Stein has extended the State of Emergency for the western North Carolina wildfires in 34 counties. The State of Emergency extension will last for a period of 30 days.
   
    
    Governor Stein today appealed to President Trump, asking him to overturn FEMA’s decision not to extend its 100 percent match for eligible Helene costs.  
   
    
    Governor Josh Stein announced today that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has approved North Carolina’s Action Plan for a $1.4 billion grant to help western North Carolina rebuild following Hurricane Helene. When compared to other states’ performance over the past decade, North Carolina submitted its Helene Action Plan to HUD in the shortest amount of time following a major hurricane.
   
    
    Today, Governor Josh Stein joined business leaders and elected officials at the grand opening ceremony for Boviet Solar’s new solar module factory in Greenville. Governor Stein celebrated Boviet Solar’s $294 million investment in North Carolina and highlighted his continued commitment to clean energy.  
   
    
    Today, Governor Josh Stein inducted eight North Carolinians into the Order of the Long Leaf Pine for their lifelong careers in public service. He also presented the Laurel Wreath to two North Carolinians who have made outstanding contributions to sports or athletics. “North Carolina is full of outstanding individuals who have contributed to our state through careers in government, law, business, philanthropy, and sports,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This group exemplifies the best of our state, and I am pleased to honor them today.”
   
    
    Today, Governor Josh Stein, North Carolina Department of Natural and Cultural Resources (DNCR) Secretary Pam Cashwell, and North Carolina Department of Enviornmental Quality (DEQ) Secretary Reid Wilson celebrated Earth Day at Eno River State Park in Durham. Governor Stein toured the park with Eno River Superintendent Kimberly Radewicz and spoke with park rangers to learn about the park’s economic and cultural impact.