Previewing the Legislative Short Session with SEANC's lobbying team

In this episode of the SEANC View Podcast, host Jonathan Owens, Executive Director Ardis Watkins, and SEANC's Government Relations team discuss the challenges and expectations in the General Assembly's short session, which began April 24. GR Director Suzanne Beasley, Political Director Flint Benson, and Lobbyist Chris Hailey, Jr., delve into the uphill battle retirees face for cost-of-living adjustments, high state hospital and prison system vacancy rates, and legislative lobbying efforts. The episode also underlines the invaluable role the SEANC Policy Platform Committee plays in representing public employees at the state level when making pivotal decisions on pay, retirement, and healthcare.

The team also discusses Ardis' recent trip to Washington with SEANC President Kirk Montgomery and his wife, Pam, to lobby members of the North Carolina Congressional delegation and Sen. Bernie Sanders on the need for more affordable prescription drug prices.

Ending on a high note, the team shares laughs over some of the most bizarre bills they've encountered in their collective years of service.