Rep. Penny Introduces HB 77

Rep. Penny, along with Representatives. Chesser, Hawkins, and Pare introduce House Bill 77, which enacts GS 20-7(q3) requiring the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to develop a driver's license designation that can be granted to a person with an autism spectrum disorder. It has passed its' first reading and will move on to the next committee for review.

NC By Train Sets New Record

North Carolina's intercity passenger rail service between Raleigh, Charlotte, and the

Northeast broke its highest total annual

ridership record in 2022.

Serving over half a million riders between January and December of last year, 2022 has been crowned as the best year for ridership in the service's 32-year history.

Comments Sought on Johnston County Widening Proposal

The NCDOT plans to widen an eight-mile stretch of N.C. 42 between U.S. 70 Business and N.C. 50, which is west of Interstate 40 at Exit 312. The mostly two-lane highway would be widened to four lanes with a raised median.

The project would improve safety and traffic flow, reduce delays during rush hour and accommodate expected traffic growth.

The NCDOT held a Feb. 2 open house in Clayton, and the agency is accepting public comments through Feb. 17.

On February 8th, the NC House voted for House Bill 40.

This legislation will enhance penalties for those who engage in violent protests, property destruction, and assaulting Law Enforcement and First Responders. The First Amendment guarantees Americans the right to protest peacefully, but it is no excuse for violence and destruction.

North Carolina Offers The Total Package: 2022 State Of The Year

Throughout 2022, the Old North State steadily attracted and retained business investment with its regional approach and world-class resources. Leading to another banner year for capital investment and job creation. I am glad to be a part of the Team in the NC House working to keep North Carolina a hot spot for business growth! North Carolina is Business Facilities' 2022 State of the Year!

Golden LEAF continues to accept applications for the

Flood Mitigation Grant Program.

Eligible Entities

Funds may only be awarded to units of local government. Local governments from all 100 counties are eligible.

Eligible Projects

Up to $250,000 may be awarded per project.

Construction of new or improvement of existing publicly owned stormwater infrastructure, including natural drainage infrastructure and flood control equipment.
Repair of existing stormwater infrastructure damaged or destroyed by flooding, which must include improvements to mitigate against future flooding.
Engineering expenses related to planning and development of flood mitigation solutions.

Visit Their Website for More Information

N.C. introduces new online registry to expedite behavioral health treatment

North Carolina has instituted a new online tool to help decrease wait times for behavioral health care.

As the state battles what it calls a growing behavioral health crisis, officials have unveiled a new tool designed to help providers more quickly find open beds for people seeking treatment.

Watch What NCDOT is Doing Now

There's a new NCDOT Now episode every Friday. Keep up to date on transportation news, projects and events.

Watch Now

This year, you – yes, you – could help transform your little corner of the world.

Now through Feb. 20, the public is invited to nominate projects they feel deserve a Lowe’s Hometowns grant. For the second consecutive year, Lowe’s is seeking nominations for its Lowe’s Hometowns impact program, a five-year, $100 million initiative designed to improve and revitalize communities across the United States.

Nominate Your Community Project Here

I want to hear from you!

As a citizen of House District 53,

I want to know what is important to you!

Share Your Thoughts

Getting in Touch with Rep. Penny

To get in contact with our office about any questions, comments, or concerns then email us at Howard.Penny@ncleg.gov, or give us a call at (919) 715-3015. Alternatively, visit our office in Room 418C of the Legislative Office Building, located at 300 N. Salisbury Street.

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