On August 26, 2020, Governor Roy Cooper held a press conference to release his proposed budget adjustments for 2020-21.

Some key items include —

  • $175 million for critical public health services, with $25 million for testing and tracing;
  • $49 million to develop a state personal protective equipment (PPE) stockpile;
  • $25 million to research obstacles to reliable, rapid COVID-19 testing;
  • $132 million to help K-12 public schools to protect students, teachers and staff with COVID-19 support;
  • $50 million to establish an emergency grant program to invest in expanded broadband access;
  • $27.5 million to combine with other funds to create a $50 million relief program to support North Carolina businesses with rent, mortgage and utility relief; and
  • One-time bonuses to K-12 public school teachers, principals, support staff and non-certified school personnel.

The NCGA House and Senate are scheduled to convene on Wednesday September 2, at noon.