League of Women Voters of North Carolina

July 30, 2011 - The League of NC has money still available for grants for two specific areas: public advocacy for voter protection and redistricting of electoral districts, either local or statewide. The LWVNC Board has decided that the money, along with matching funds from LWVNC, will be available on a grant basis to local Leagues to use for activities in these areas over the next year. Proposals can be sent in any time before December 31, 2011 or until the pool of money is fully committed. However, since funds are available on a "first come first serve" basis, we urge you to send in any proposals quickly. Detailed instructions and a submittal form are in the Members Only "Grants" page. (Contact the webmaster for the password if necessary.)

We want to support local LWVs' efforts in education in these two very important areas that are in the news these days. This also gives us an opportunity to help coordinate efforts between local Leagues.

For more information please see the LWV national website under the Programs tab, for resources and information on Redistricting and Public Advocacy for Voter Protection. We look forward to seeing your proposals.

As of January 1, 2010 16 and 17-year olds in North Carolina are now able to pre-register to vote using the regular registration form which has been updated. The voting age has not changed, but the new law could boost youth participation by engaging teenagers at the age at which they get their drivers' license or take civics in high school. Pre-registration means they become automatically registered when they reach voting age.

Local League members can help by letting school personnel know about this new law and contacting their local board of elections to find out how to help in getting the registration materials to the schools. The NC Civic Education Consortium has developed two lesson plans for teachers and an accompanying power point presentation. This material can be used by local Leagues to help communicate and persuade the educational community that this is an excellent idea for youth. If you would like to help schools, youth groups and others implement this new law, please contact League partner Democracy NC's Organizing Director Adam Sotak at adamsotak@democracy-nc.org. Foster good citizenship -- encourage the young people of your community to pre-register to vote today!

Throughout the 2009 General Assembly, the League of Women Voters of North Carolina has followed several important issues. The four focal points have included Campaign and Election Reform, Access to Government, Environment, and Tax Budget Fairness. We, just like everyone else, have also been focusing on the state budget as well. The General Assembly adjourned on Tuesday, August 11, with many items accomplished for the session. Read a synopsis prepared by The NC Council of Churches, Raleigh Report.

League action occurs at every level of government after members reach a position on an issue.

CURRENT PUBLIC POLICY POSITIONS

POSITIONS FOR ACTION with historical background

Delegates at the 2007 LWVNC Convention voted to adopt the following program items as issues for emphasis: tax reform, campaign and election reform, instant runoff voting, a moratorium on the death penalty, and redistricting. In addition, the LWVNC Advocacy Committee is also concerned about a variety of environment, aging and health care issues in the State legislature.

On tax reform, the NC League supports an equitable and efficient system of taxes, structuring individual income tax to better reflect one’s ability to pay, and promoting the adoption of other equitable measures that would ensure sufficient revenue to provide needed services. Currently the LWVNC is working with other groups from across the state on issues related to modernization of the NC tax code. LWV members observe legislative commissions, meet with policymakers, educate our members on current tax issues and work with coalition members to influence fair tax policy. To work on this issue, contact Carol Rist at lwvnctaxreform@bellsouth.net.

The NC League supports campaign and election reform measures that safeguard the rights of the voter and encourage clear and democratic election procedures. Further, we promote and support election laws that emphasize full participation of all citizens in the democratic process. We support campaign finance reform through measures such as public financing and voluntary spending limits. In accordance with the League of Women Voters' position of promoting political responsibility through informed and active participation of citizens in government, the LWVNC supports instant runoff voting (IRV) for all statewide and local elections. To work on these issues, contact Louise Romanow at lwvnccampaignreform@earthlink.net.

The NC League supports a death penalty moratorium, the fair and equal treatment of all persons in the criminal justice system, and a swift, sure, and fair disposition for every defendant. To work on this issue, contact lwvncdeathpen@bellsouth.net.

The NC League supports legislative efforts to make the redistricting process more equitable by establishing an independent agency responsible for periodic reapportionment and redistricting. The 2011 legislative session is taking up this issue.

The NC League actively supports legislation promoting high water quality standards and reducing sedimentation. To work on Environmental issues, contact Jeri Gray at lwvncenvironment@earthlink.net.

The NC League supports establishing, monitoring and enforcing standards defining state and county responsibilities for the provision of services to older adults. To work on this issue, contact Joann Robertson at lwvncaging@bellsouth.net.

The NC League supports a universal health care system for North Carolina which is based on the LWVUS position. To work on this issue, contact Evelin Brinich at lwvnchealthcare@bellsouth.net.

We support open government and freedom of information through Sunshine Laws.

Grants available to local Leagues for efforts in voter protection and redistricting

A Voters' Service Project for all Local Leagues

General Assembly Adopts Budget, Adjourns

Positions for Action

CURRENT PUBLIC POLICY POSITIONS

POSITIONS FOR ACTION with historical background

Issues for Emphasis

Advocacy Committee and Legislative Reports

LWVUS Immigration Study