House Joint Resolution 157 is a simple procedural resolution inviting Governor Josh Stein to address a joint session of the North Carolina House and Senate on March 12, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. The resolution also extends invitations to the Governor’s cabinet, the Council of State, the justices of the North Carolina Supreme Court, and the judges of the Court of Appeals to attend the session.
The measure does not change substantive law, create new programs, or appropriate funds. Its effect is limited to legislative scheduling and ceremonial protocol, formally authorizing a joint session in the Hall of the House of Representatives and setting out who may be invited to attend.
Impact
H157 has no direct impact on the North Carolina General Statutes or regulatory law. It is a joint resolution with immediate effect upon ratification, serving only to organize a joint legislative session and extend official invitations to state leaders and members of the judiciary.
Sentiment
The bill appears to have been noncontroversial and broadly supported. The recorded votes show overwhelming approval in both chambers, with 114-1 on the House second reading and 48-0 on the Senate second reading, indicating strong bipartisan agreement on the ceremonial invitation.
Contention
There is little to no substantive contention associated with this resolution because it is ceremonial rather than policy-driven. The only notable dissent is the single negative vote in the House, but no committee debate or transcript is available to explain the objection, and the Senate vote was unanimous.