The SEANC View

Governor Stein's State of the State Address

In this episode of the SEANC View podcast, host Jonathan Owens is joined by Suzanne Beasley, Ardis Watkins, and Sam Cline to discuss Governor Josh Stein's recent State of the State address. State employees and retirees were largely absent from the address, despite the ongoing crisis of high vacancy rates within state agencies and the resultant pressure on remaining employees.
The team also touches on the legislature's oversight of public service employees, retention issues, and the economic impact on the state workforce. They highlight the importance of recognizing public employees' contributions, especially those who continue to work under challenging conditions.
President Kirk Montgomery and Immediate Past President Martha Fowler also join for a conversation on celebrating black leaders and institutions in state government for Black History Month, as well as their time in SEANC leadership.
We close with a discussion of the 5-year anniversary of the start of the COVID-19 lockdown.

DOGE efforts in North Carolina with Rep. John Torbett

Rep. John Torbett joined this week's edition of the SEANC View Podcast to discuss the House Select Committee on Government Efficiency work, which he co-chairs with Rep. Keith Kidwell. Torbett discusses in length the committee's aims, how it compares to the national DOGE effort led by Elon Musk, and the role SEANC and state employees will play in its work.
Before the interview, the SEANC team discusses this week's House Commerce and Economic Development Committee meetings concerning a bill to invest 10% of the state pension plan in Bitcoin. SEANC lobbyist Flint Benson spoke out against the bill in the committee, telling members that Bitcoin is too volatile to risk state employees' retirement security. We also discuss the State Health Plan's expected premium increase ahead of Friday's meeting.

NC Legislature takes aim at DEI Initiatives

This week, a bill filed in the House targets "DEI Initiatives" in state government without clarifying what that means. State Treasurer Brad Briner, State Auditor Dave Boliek, and Commissioner of Labor Luke Farley have made similar statements. In this week's edition of the SEANC View Podcast, we discuss how these statements might affect state workers.
We talk about the State Health Plan Board of Trustees meeting planned for next week, at which the board will consider premium increases for members and their families. We also discuss state revenue projections and DOGE efforts at the legislature.

Snow Kidding: It's Fiscal Forecast Time!

On this week's edition of the SEANC View Podcast, we discuss these projections and the creation of a Select Committee on Government Efficiency to bring the Trump Administration's "DOGE" effort to North Carolina. We also discuss the proposed state cookie, winter weather, and more!

Bitcoin and the State Retirement System

This week, we welcome SEANC Retiree Council Chairman Jamie Robinson and Membership Chairman Cliff Johnson to discuss State Treasurer Brad Briner's visit to the retiree council's latest meeting.
We discuss the controversial bill allowing up to 10% of the retirement fund to be invested in Bitcoin, raising concerns about investment risks. The episode also delves into crucial topics such as transparency in healthcare and retirement system contracts, as well as potential tier-based premium increases for the State Health Plan.
 

Unmasking Healthcare Costs and Reform at Prisons

Welcome to another edition of the Scenic View podcast. In this episode, host Jonathan Owens is joined by Ardis Watkins, executive director, and Sam Cline, podcast producer, to discuss pressing issues within North Carolina's legislative landscape, particularly focusing on healthcare costs and prison safety.
North Carolina ranks highest in healthcare service costs yet doesn't boast similarly high outcomes. The episode explores the cause of that, with insights from recent legislative experiences. Comparisons with other states' healthcare models, such as Massachusetts, are drawn to highlight potential paths for reform.
Additionally, the podcast focuses on the ongoing concerns over safety in North Carolina's prisons, exacerbated by understaffing. With firsthand accounts from First Vice President Wendell Powell and Prison Safety Committee Chairwoman Deborah Harney, the discussion reflects on past incidents and legislative efforts aimed at reform. Listeners gain an understanding of the systemic challenges and proposed solutions poised to enhance safety for employees and incarcerated individuals alike.

The legislature gets to work, and needs persist in the West

In this episode of The SEANC View podcast, host Jonathan Owens, along with Executive Director Ardis Watkins, Government Relations Director Suzanne Beasley, and Podcast Producer Sam Cline, discuss the new state legislative session. Suzanne shares insights from her busy week as the legislature returns to full session, discussing passed bills and procedures set by Speaker Hall.
The conversation shifts to a critical view of the public's perception of state employees' earnings and benefits. Ardis and Suzanne tackle wage disparities, the cost of living, and the ongoing benefits debate. They highlight the urgent need for an overhaul in understanding the financial realities faced by state employees, especially concerning pay and health plan costs.
Later in the show, we interview Western Region Representative Cliff Johnson and Retiree Council Chairman Jamie Robinson, who were integral to our Hurricane Helene relief efforts. Listeners get an in-depth look at the struggles and community resilience of the people in the mountains.

Live from Wilmington: SEANC Leaders Unite

Welcome to a special live edition of the SEANC View podcast, where we engage with the key leaders of our state association in the picturesque setting of Wilmington, North Carolina. This episode provides an inside look at the vibrant community of leaders dedicated to driving the mission of SEANC forward.
We explore the dynamic discussions among our officers, committee chairs, and executive committee. Through insightful conversations with passionate members like President Kirk Montgomery, Second Vice President Emily Jones, Treasurer Stacie Crabtree, and Secretary Betty Gautier, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the organization's goals, including advocacy for state employees, recognition of valuable work, and improvement of benefits and working conditions.
With Growth & Expansion Committee Chairman Charles Streeter and Emerging Leaders Chairwoman Tracy Webb, we also discussed recruiting younger members, building new leaders, and engaging in community service.

State Health Plan, Tik Tok Ban, Piano Man

In this episode of the SEANC View podcast, the team dives into the contentious healthcare debate affecting state employees. Jonathan Owens, Ardis Watkins, Suzanne Beasley, and Sam Cline discuss the implications of proposed changes to healthcare premiums based on employee salaries, and the lack of transparency in provider contracts. The conversation sheds light on the challenges and assumptions faced by state employees and the actions needed to address these issues.
The podcast also explores the controversial TikTok ban in the United States, examining its potential impact on millions of users, influencers, and small businesses. Discussing legislative actions and market implications, the hosts provide insights into how this social media disruption could reshape digital communication.
Additionally, the episode touches on various cultural and political topics, including the commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and the ongoing challenges with wildfire containment in California. Tune in for a thorough examination of how these issues intersect with the lives of state employees and broader societal dynamics.

Navigating North Carolina's Healthcare Storm

This week the SEANC team discusses the intricacies of healthcare in North Carolina, including the pressing issues surrounding the state health plan. State Treasurer Brad Briner announced this week his intentions to raise premiums on the 740,000-plus members of the plan.
The team explores the implications of the potential premium hikes as well as how healthcare costs impact not only public servants but all residents of North Carolina. We question the transparency of healthcare provider contracts and discuss the financial burdens placed on families due to rising premiums and deductibles.
The podcast also touches on the complexities of maintaining state road safety during icy conditions, the dedication of DOT workers, and the ongoing challenges in managing public resources efficiently. Tune in for a deep dive into these critical topics, coupled with lighthearted anecdotes about snow, sledding, and cherished winter memories.