NC Republicans strike late-budget framework with tax cuts and big raises

North Carolina Republicans announced a late framework for a new state budget after nearly a year-long stalemate, proposing a 3.49% income tax rate in 2027 (holding for three years) and a constitutional amendment to cap it at 3.5%, plus an average 8% teacher pay raise and a 3% state-employee raise with bonuses; law enforcement receives sizable boosts and retirees get a 2.5% bonus. A final budget vote is expected by mid-June as lawmakers finish details and await a revised revenue forecast.