Gov. Josh Stein delivers State of the State address

RALEIGH, N.C. (WTVD) — North Carolina Gov. Josh Stein delivered his very first State of the State address on Wednesday evening.

Stein began his speech speaking on the efforts to revitalize western North Carolina following the devastation from Hurricane Helene.

The governor also called on the support of small businesses affected by the storm.

“After a major disaster, more than 40% of all affected small businesses never reopen; within two years, 60% have permanently closed their doors,” Stein said. “Folks, we cannot let that become our story. Small business is the beating heart of the economy of western North Carolina.”

Click here to read more.