The legislature began its 2018 short session on Wednesday. The House filed 47 bills this week, and the Senate filed 15. The House passed a bill that modifies the licensure process for out of state school psychologists who want to practice in North Carolina. Also, the Senate Finance Committee adopted legislation that would make numerous changes to state revenue laws. Both chambers plan to consider more substantive legislation next week.

Various Changes to Revenue Laws

The Senate Finance Committee passed SB 715: Various Changes to the Revenue Laws on Thursday. The legislation, sponsored by Sens. Jerry Tillman (R-Randolph) and Tommy Tucker (R-Union), would make comprehensive changes to state tax and revenue laws, which includes directing the Department of Revenue to develop a plan to offer electronic filing of tax returns. The bill was referred to the Senate Rules Committee.

Reciprocity for School Psychologist Licensure

The House unanimously passed legislation that would change the licensure process for out of state school psychologists who want to practice in North Carolina. Sponsored by Reps. Josh Dobson (R-McDowell), David Lewis (R-Harnett), Marvin Lucas (D-Cumberland), and John Torbett (R-Gaston), HB 933: Reciprocity/School Psychologist Licensure would compel the State Board of Education to license any person certified as a Nationally School Certified Psychologist by the National Association of School Psychologists. Currently, persons who are licensed in another state are required to go through the same initial licensure process as unlicensed North Carolina residents. The bill is an effort to fill vacant school psychologist positions across the state. 

A Look Ahead to Next Week

Monday, May 21
12:00 PM Session Convenes (House)
1:00 PM Joint Legislative Program Evaluation Oversight Committee
7:00 PM Session Convenes (Senate)