North Carolina remains at Phase Two – The big news of the week is that Governor Cooper continuation of Phase II Executive Orders for controlling the spread of coronavirus. Phase Three had been scheduled to go into effect on Friday, but with the sharp rise in cases and hospitalizations for the virus, the Governor decided to continue under Phase Two orders and reevaluate in another three weeks. See article at this link. 

Removal of Confederate Monuments – Governor Cooper this week ordered the removal of statues located on the Capitol grounds for safety reasons. His order is the result of protesters toppling parts of the monuments the night before without regard for public safety. See article at this link. 

Unemployment claims – With the spike in Covid-19 cases occurring in North Carolina, unemployment claims also increased. Such claims have been at record levels for several weeks in the State. See article at this link.

Adjournment – The legislature adjourned at 3 a.m. this morning to “a date certain,” NOT sine die. The Speaker announced that skeletal sessions will be held next week. However, legislative business (for now) has been completed and the House and Senate have adjourned to a date certain.