Congresswoman Adams: “I’m Troubled By Governor McCrory’s Decision To Sign NC Hb 318 Into Law”

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Alma S. Adams (NC-12) today released the following statement after North Carolina (NC) Governor Pat McCrory signed NC House Bill 318, the Protect North Carolina Worker's Act into law:

"Earlier this month, I called on Governor McCrory to keep the best interests of North Carolina's residents in mind by vetoing this mean-spirited legislation," said Congresswoman Adams. "I'm troubled that Governor McCrory signed HB 318 into state law and it is clear that he did not have the best interests of North Carolinians in mind in doing so."

Congresswoman Adams sent a letter to Governor McCrory at the beginning of October, urging him to veto HB 318. Congresswoman Adams opposed the bill because it prevents the state of North Carolina from ever requesting a waiver from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to extend Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for unemployed adults with no dependents, who have been out of work for an extended period of time. Congresswoman Adams also opposed provisions within the bill that attack immigrants living in North Carolina.

Currently, unemployed adults with no dependents, who are not disabled, may only receive SNAP benefits for three months during a 36-month period. Only state departments of health can request a waiver from USDA to extend the three month limit in areas that have higher rates of unemployment. HB 318 would prohibit the state of North Carolina from ever applying for a USDA waiver. North Carolina's 12^th District has a 13.8 percent unemployment rate, more than double the state and national averages.