Bill seeking to limit NC governor emergency powers advances

RALEIGH, NC (AP) — House Republicans have advanced a measure that requires North Carolina’s governor to get formal support from other elected leaders to enforce long-term statewide emergency orders.

A state House judiciary committee voted on Tuesday for the legislation. It marks another response by GOP legislators to Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper’s executive orders declaring an emergency due to COVID-19.

Republicans and some allies have said Cooper has wielded too much individual power closing schools and businesses.

The bill would require the governor to seek and receive backing from a majority of the Council of State. Cooper vetoed a similar bill last year.