I-40 Destroyed Again: North Carolina Border Cut Off After Heavy Rainfall and Major Rockslide

0

Just months after I-40 was reopened after the historic flooding from Hurricane Helene – the North Carolina-Tennessee border is closed once again after severe flooding and a rockslide destroyed part of the rebuilt highway.

As of Thursday morning, I-40 remains closed in both directions near Exit 451 at Waterville Road, just east of the state line. Floodwaters have also overtaken Waterville Road, though no injuries have been reported, according to the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT).

The Cocke County Emergency Management Agency detailed a series of rapid developments triggered by heavy rainfall. After nearly two hours of steady rain, water began pooling in parking areas along the Pigeon River. Runoff from nearby mountains quickly worsened the situation.

At 4:34 p.m., emergency officials activated the Cocke County Swift Water Rescue Team in preparation for potential rescues in the Hartford area, especially for commercial and private rafters still on the river.

By 4:51 p.m., Cocke County 911 received multiple emergency calls from drivers trapped on I-40. Responders found three vehicles submerged up to three-quarters in floodwater near Mile Marker 450. All occupants had escaped without injury. Additional reports indicated 20 or more people stranded in or on vehicles near the state line.

Simultaneously, a family trapped in their home on Green Corner Road also required rescue. Flooded, washed-out roads prevented direct access. Responders split their resources between the interstate and Green Corner, coordinating with Newport City Fire, Newport Rescue Squad, and other agencies. Response times to both areas were under 10 minutes.

The National Park Service also reminded commercial drivers that trucks are prohibited on US 441/Newfound Gap Road due to steep grades, sharp curves, and the lack of safe pull-offs for large vehicles.

Officials continue to urge the public to avoid the area until further notice.

North Carolina Launches PATH NC to Modernize Child Welfare Across Our State

0

The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has launched PATH NC, a new statewide technology platform designed to modernize how child welfare services are delivered, tracked, and managed across all 100 counties.

Announced Tuesday, PATH NC — short for Partnership and Technology Hub for North Carolina—brings together the state’s previously fragmented child welfare data systems into a single, unified platform. The new system equips social workers with real-time data, certified decision-making tools, and field-access capabilities aimed at improving child safety and outcomes for vulnerable families.

“PATH NC is more than a technology upgrade – it’s an investment in North Carolina’s children and families,” said NC Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai in a press release. “By providing social services staff with better tools, clearer data and integrated support, we are laying the foundation for a safer, more responsive child welfare system that delivers better, more consistent results – no matter where you live.”

For decades, counties operated with a patchwork of tools, and nearly half still relied on paper-based casework. PATH NC will replace those outdated systems, creating statewide access to a family’s full child welfare history, even if they move between counties.

Developed over five years in partnership with county departments of social services, the new platform features advanced case management modules and mobile-friendly access. Social workers can now update case files during home visits, assessments, and court hearings—even with limited internet access.

One key feature is the redesign of Structured Decision-Making (SDM) tools. Certified by Evident Change, these tools help child welfare staff more accurately assess risk and safety during child abuse or neglect investigations. Early reviews show improved consistency between county decisions and state policies.

PATH NC includes:

  • Dashboards, alerts, and risk-assessment tools for frontline staff

  • A global search function and real-time analytics

  • Integrated data-sharing capabilities with NC Medicaid, DPI, and partner agencies

  • Future support for provider and family-facing portals

The system’s development, training, and rollout represent a $65 million investment by NCDHHS. The phased rollout began June 2 with 15 counties using the system for intake and assessment. All counties will transition to PATH NC by early 2026, with full case management capabilities expected by summer 2026.

NCDHHS officials say the launch aligns with broader goals to strengthen oversight, reduce administrative burden, and improve outcomes in North Carolina’s child welfare system.

Juvenile Just Arrested in Charlotte Now Faces Over 275 Charges Across The Carolinas

0

A juvenile offender arrested eight times since April now faces more than 275 charges from law enforcement agencies across North and South Carolina, according to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department.

Between April and June 2025, CMPD’s JADE Unit repeatedly arrested the same juvenile for widespread vehicle break-ins spanning multiple jurisdictions. Despite the serious nature of the crimes — including stolen firearms and felonies — judges twice released the offender and placed them on electronic monitoring.

Police say the juvenile cut off the court-ordered monitor and was later linked to at least 100 additional vehicle break-ins. On June 5, officers arrested him again, this time with two stolen firearms in possession.

The charges filed so far include:

  • Breaking and Entering of Motor Vehicles – 57 counts

  • Felony Conspiracy – 21 counts

  • Possession of Handgun by Minor – 6 counts

  • Possession of Stolen Firearm – 3 counts

  • Larceny and Attempted Larceny of Motor Vehicles – 3 counts

  • Possession of Stolen Motor Vehicle – 1 count

At least eight different law enforcement agencies across both Carolinas have filed charges against the juvenile. Officials say the scale and repetition of offenses underscore broader concerns about the juvenile justice system’s ability to manage habitual offenders.

CMPD emphasized that repeat offenders like this juvenile skew public perception of crime by driving up incident and victim counts. This creates the illusion of widespread criminal activity, even though many offenses are committed by the same individuals.

Department leaders called the case a clear example of how gaps in enforcement and supervision can lead to escalating threats to public safety.

Charlotte Entrepreneur Talks Growth After Launching 2 Black-Owned Companies in 3 Years

0

Charlotte-based entrepreneur Jerome Touchstone is reflecting on how his experience as a former athlete and background in fintech has led to a growing portfolio of businesses that is continuing to thrive. With Charlotte ranking No. 13 on WalletHub’s recent list of Best Large Cities to Start a Business, Touchstone notes that key resources in the Queen City, such as access to resources and a strong business environment, were critical to launching two Black-owned companies – Hello Garage of Southeast Charlotte and Gymonkee – within three years.

“I was able to build a supportive network and couple that with business acumen to get my businesses on track. While being a business owner is about putting in hard work, it’s also about being coachable and willing to coach others,” said Touchstone, a former football player at Appalachian State University who moved into fintech after earning a Master of Business Administration. “Time and time again, I’ve seen how lessons from the football field have translated to my life now in entrepreneurship.”

His latest venture is a foray into home improvement after witnessing the segment’s growth during the early days of the pandemic and with the industry expected to reach a U.S. market value exceeding $600 billion by 2025. Last November, Touchstone became a franchisee of popular garage renovation company Hello Garage, where “Garage Gurus” help transform spaces by perfecting things that make the most impact: flooring, storage and accessories. Since launching, his team of five has completed more than 35 renovations.

In 2018, Touchstone co-founded Gymonkee after struggling to find quality fitness options while traveling for work. The subscription-based mobile application offers its members a digital gym pass granting discounted access to national and regional chains across the country. Members “swing” into partnering fitness centers and customize experiences allowing them to determine the best options to reach their health goals. Despite the significant impact of the pandemic on indoor gyms, the Black-owned tech startup has amassed nearly 1,000 memberships and partnerships with more than 50 fitness facilities.

Touchstone knows the sky’s the limit with respect to future business endeavors.

“This is only the beginning; there are many other areas I’m looking to explore,” he said. “I’m working to leave a legacy that makes a positive impact on my family and my community.”

About Hello Garage

Backed by more than 45 years’ experience through its parent company Supportworks, Hello Garage is on a mission to elevate the garage from cluttered junk drawer to America’s true front door. More than that, Hello Garage franchisees aim to make the entire Hello Garage experience so remarkable, every homeowner will want to tell their friends about it. Hello Garage helps homeowners organize and personalize their entire space with high-end polyaspartic floor coating proven to outlast epoxy, an exclusively offered and totally customizable storage system, and other garage accessories. Beyond proving industry-leading products, the creators of Hello Garage wanted homeowners to experience working with a trusted contractor. The core of the company is centered around providing a redefining experience for the customer – and has led to a successful business model with franchise locations across the country. For more information, visit hellogarage.com.

About Gymonkee

Founded in 2018, Gymonkee is a subscription-based mobile application that offers its members a digital gym pass granting discounted access to national and regional chains across the country. Members “swing” into partnering fitness centers and customize experiences allowing them to determine the best options to reach their health goals. Visit gymonkee.com for more information.

Golden Monk’s White Vein Bali Kratom Powder: Why It’s A Must-Buy?

0

If you’re curious about kratom and like keeping things smooth and simple, you’ve probably come across Golden Monk. Known for keeping quality tight and choices wide, this brand has made a name for itself among fans. One standout on their menu? Their White vein bali kratom powder—a choice that’s catching attention for all the right reasons. In this blog, we’ll break down exactly why it is worth your cart plus how you can easily get your hands on it.

Why Is Golden Monk’s White Vein Bali Kratom Powder Worth Buying?

1. AKA approved vendor

Golden Monk is an approved vendor by the American Kratom Association (AKA), meaning they meet high industry standards for safety and quality. This certification ensures that their products are sourced responsibly, tested for contaminants, and adhere to best practices. When you buy from an AKA-approved vendor, you can trust that you’re getting kratom that’s both safe and effective, backed by rigorous quality control measures.

2. Lab-tested quality

Golden Monk’s kratom is lab-tested, which means each batch is checked for purity, potency, and contaminants. This testing helps ensure the product you’re getting is consistent, safe, and meets high-quality standards. Lab testing also confirms that the powder contains the alkaloid levels promised, ensuring you get exactly what you’re paying for. It’s a way of guaranteeing both safety and effectiveness for your peace of mind.

3. Affordably priced

Golden Monk makes quality kratom accessible without breaking the bank. Their products are priced reasonably, offering a balance between affordability and high-quality ingredients. While kratom can sometimes be expensive, this brand ensures that customers receive great value for their money, making it easier to try out their premium kratom products without worrying about a steep price tag. It’s the perfect option for those looking for quality at a reasonable cost.

4. High satisfaction rate

Golden Monk enjoys a high satisfaction rate, with over 75,000 satisfied customers consistently praising the brand’s kratom for its consistency, purity, and effectiveness. Positive reviews highlight the smooth experience and reliable quality of the products. Whether it’s the potency or the overall customer experience, the brand has managed to earn the trust of a large and growing customer base. In fact, this strong track record of satisfaction makes it a go-to choice for enthusiasts looking for a dependable brand they can count on.

5. Swiftly & securely shipped

Golden Monk offers fast and reliable shipping, ensuring your kratom arrives quickly and safely. Orders are shipped securely to minimize the risk of damage during transit. Their shipping process is straightforward, with options to track your order for full transparency. Whether you’re ordering for the first time or returning for more, they get your order to you without hassle, allowing you to enjoy your product as soon as possible.

6. 100% money-back guarantee

Golden Monk stands behind their products with a 100% money-back guarantee. If you’re not satisfied with your purchase, you can return it for a full refund. This policy adds an extra layer of confidence when buying, as you know that you can shop risk-free. This guarantee further shows that the brand is committed to customer satisfaction and trusts in the quality of their products, ensuring that you don’t have to worry about making the wrong choice.

7. Backed by superb customer support

Golden Monk’s customer support team is always there to assist with any questions or concerns. Whether you need help with ordering, have a question about the product, or need guidance on which kratom option to choose, their team is friendly, knowledgeable, and ready to help. In short, excellent customer support is a big reason why users trust this brand and feel comfortable purchasing from them, knowing they’ll get the help they need whenever it’s required.

A Step-By-Step Guide To Buy Golden Monk’s White Vein Bali Kratom Powder

1. Visit their official site

Head to Golden Monk’s official website for a secure shopping experience. Make sure you’re on the right site to guarantee you’re buying authentic products.

2. Click on “Products”

Once on the homepage, navigate to the “Products” section to explore their selection of products, ensuring you can easily find what you’re looking for.

3.Select ‘White Vein Kratom’

In the product section, choose “White Vein Kratom” to narrow your options and focus on the variety you’re interested in. You’ll find both white vein kratom powder or capsules, making it easy to choose your preferred form.

4. Locate this specific powder

Browse the options under the above-mentioned category to locate the Bali strain-infused one. It should be clearly labeled for easy identification, making your selection straightforward.

5. Go through the description & reviews

Before purchasing, go through the customer reviews and the product description. This will give you an idea of what to expect and reassure you of its quality.

6. Choose your preferred quantity

Pick the quantity of the powder you want. Whether you’re trying it out or stocking up, selecting the right quantity is key for your needs.

7. Add to cart

Once you’ve made your selection, click “Add to Cart.” This step ensures your choice is saved for checkout, so you’re ready to complete your purchase.

8. Choose your preferred payment option

At checkout, select your payment method. Golden Monk provides various secure options, including credit cards and other payment gateways, ensuring a smooth transaction process.

9. Provide billing information, pay & checkout

Finally, enter your billing details and complete the payment process. After payment, simply finalize your order and wait for swift delivery!

Closing Lines

Golden Monk is a top choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable, and reliable kratom product. With its lab-tested quality, AKA approval, and customer satisfaction guarantee, you can feel confident in your purchase. The straightforward purchasing process ensures you can easily get your hands on this premium product, with fast shipping and excellent customer support to back you up. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a regular user, this brand makes it easy to experience the best of kratom.

Charlotte To Consider I-77 Toll Lane Expansion South of Uptown During Meeting Tonight

0

Charlotte-area transportation leaders are moving forward with a proposal to expand I-77 toll lanes south of Uptown through a public-private partnership — a plan that continues to draw public scrutiny and concern.

At Wednesday’s Charlotte Regional Transportation Planning Organization (CRTPO) meeting, the board began reviewing an indicative term sheet outlining key conditions for a potential partnership between the state and a private developer. The review follows more than a year of evaluations and working group sessions between CRTPO, the North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT), and the N.C. Turnpike Authority (NCTA).

The toll lane expansion would be financed, built, and operated by a private firm, as a traditional state-funded model was deemed financially unfeasible. NCDOT’s analysis, presented in August 2024, found that only the public-private option could realistically move forward.

CRTPO first endorsed the comparative analysis in February 2023. By October 2024, the board supported NCDOT proceeding with a P3 delivery model — with the condition that a working group would help shape project objectives and priorities. That group met over the past seven months and finalized key terms in May.

CRTPO board members received the indicative term sheet on June 2, launching a 60-day review period that ends August 1. If no objections are raised, NCDOT remains on schedule to advertise a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) in mid-August.

The toll lane project is just one part of a broader conversation. The CRTPO council will also be voting on the release of its draft 2055 Metropolitan Transportation Plan, which outlines more than 200 future transportation projects across Mecklenburg, Union, and Iredell counties. The list includes proposed light rail and bus rapid transit corridors that would require future local funding.

Public comment on the long-range plan will be open from June 19 to July 19. The CRTPO board meets at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center.

You can read tonight’s full CRTPO agenda here.

Alligator Attacks Child in North Carolina Lake

0

A young child suffered serious injuries after being attacked by an alligator while swimming in a North Carolina lake, according to police.

The Lake Waccamaw Police Department confirmed the child was playing in approximately four feet of water with a group of other children when the incident occurred. One child suddenly cried out, “Something bit me,” prompting adults to immediately remove all the children from the water.

Shortly after the children were pulled ashore, a 6- to 7-foot alligator surfaced in the same area. Authorities believe the alligator “definitely” caused the child’s injuries, although it remains unclear whether the wounds came from a bite or a claw.

The child’s injuries were classified as serious but not life-threatening, police said. Emergency services treated the victim promptly, and officials have since neutralized the alligator involved.

The North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission is actively managing the situation and has been praised for its swift response.

Lake Waccamaw officials are urging the public to stay vigilant when near the water. “This gator wasn’t seen until after the incident,” police said. “Multiple adults were present.”

Residents and visitors are reminded that alligators are wild animals and should never be approached or treated like pets. Anyone who spots one is advised to exit the water and keep a safe distance.

North Carolina Ranks 8th among the States Where People Are Most Delinquent on Debt

0

American households are carrying around $18.2 trillion in debt, and the personal-finance website WalletHub has just released its updated report on the States Where People Are the Most Delinquent on Debt to show where individuals are at the greatest risk of credit score damage and other financial consequences.

To identify the areas where people are struggling most with their debt, the site analyzed proprietary user data from Q1 2025 across all 50 states, taking into account both the percentage of individual tradelines that were delinquent and the share of residents’ total loan balances that were delinquent.

North Carolina Stats

  • Overall Rank: 8th
  • Percentage of Tradelines Delinquent in Q1 2025: 12.33%
  • Percentage of Loan Balance Delinquent in Q1 2025: 7.65%

States Most Delinquent on Debt Payments

Overall Rank*  State Total Score  Percentage of Tradelines Delinquent in Q1 2025  Percentage of Loan Balance Delinquent in Q1 2025 
1 Mississippi 100.00 14.27% 13.09%
2 Louisiana 85.20 13.12% 11.93%
3 West Virginia 69.47 12.33% 10.13%
4 Alabama 64.90 12.32% 9.34%
5 Arkansas 61.85 11.81% 9.46%
6 South Carolina 57.18 11.96% 8.41%
7 Delaware 57.04 11.87% 8.50%
8 North Carolina 55.66 12.33% 7.65%
9 Texas 54.58 11.67% 8.32%
10 Tennessee 53.55 11.48% 8.39%
11 Oklahoma 53.47 11.24% 8.69%
12 Indiana 53.25 11.38% 8.47%
13 New Mexico 51.88 10.98% 8.74%
14 Pennsylvania 49.89 11.40% 7.83%
15 Kentucky 49.09 11.06% 8.14%
16 Alaska 48.37 11.23% 7.79%
17 Maryland 46.95 11.01% 7.82%
18 Georgia 45.88 11.03% 7.59%
19 Nevada 43.35 11.08% 7.08%
20 New Jersey 43.31 10.42% 7.94%
21 Connecticut 41.99 10.51% 7.58%
22 Michigan 41.55 10.80% 7.12%
23 Missouri 40.08 10.66% 7.04%
24 Arizona 38.11 10.87% 6.41%
25 New York 35.53 10.28% 6.73%
26 Maine 35.45 9.99% 7.09%
27 Virginia 34.65 10.55% 6.20%
28 Minnesota 34.57 10.17% 6.69%
29 Nebraska 33.17 9.71% 7.05%
30 Florida 32.30 9.80% 6.77%
31 Kansas 32.24 9.67% 6.93%
32 North Dakota 31.71 9.95% 6.47%
33 South Dakota 31.57 10.53% 5.67%
34 Rhode Island 31.45 9.95% 6.42%
35 Idaho 30.54 9.63% 6.68%
36 New Hampshire 28.58 9.50% 6.49%
37 Vermont 27.82 9.22% 6.73%
38 Ohio 27.04 9.46% 6.27%
39 Oregon 26.45 9.56% 6.04%
40 Hawaii 25.93 9.35% 6.21%
41 California 25.57 10.28% 4.93%
42 Massachusetts 25.26 9.71% 5.62%
43 Illinois 24.48 9.34% 5.97%
44 Wyoming 22.91 10.12% 4.66%
45 Wisconsin 19.71 9.04% 5.50%
46 Colorado 19.28 9.29% 5.10%
47 Washington 18.92 9.27% 5.05%
48 Montana 17.63 9.63% 4.35%
49 Utah 15.42 8.81% 5.03%
50 Iowa 0.00 7.42% 4.08%

Note: *No. 1 = Most Delinquent

The Most User-Friendly TRC20 Wallet for 2025? Bitget Wallet Review for TRON Users

0

What Is a TRC20 Wallet?

A TRC20 wallet is a digital wallet designed to store, send, and receive TRC20 tokens – cryptocurrencies that run on the TRON blockchain, such as USDT (Tether). TRC20 is the technical standard for smart contracts on TRON, similar to ERC20 on Ethereum. These wallets not only hold tokens but also let users interact with TRON-based decentralized apps (dApps), manage gas fees in TRX, and perform on-chain actions. As TRON grows in popularity thanks to its fast, low-cost transactions, having a reliable TRC20-compatible wallet is essential for anyone actively using or investing in TRON-based assets.

Why TRC20 Users Need a Better Wallet in 2025

The TRON blockchain has become a go-to platform for fast, low-cost transactions, especially for stablecoins like USDT. As the TRC20 token standard gains traction, users need wallets that offer more than just basic storage – they need speed, security, and seamless access to the TRON ecosystem. Enter Bitget Wallet, a multi-chain, self-custodial wallet that’s rapidly becoming the top choice for TRC20 users in 2025.

What Is Bitget Wallet?

Bitget Wallet is a decentralized Web3 wallet supporting over 130 blockchains and more than 1 million tokens. It’s designed for both beginners and seasoned crypto users, offering features like token swapping, staking, NFT trading, and dApp browsing – all within a sleek, intuitive interface. With over 80 million users globally, Bitget Wallet has evolved into a comprehensive hub for all on-chain activities, from trading and earning to spending crypto in daily life.

Why Bitget Wallet Is Ideal for TRC20 Users

1. Full TRON Ecosystem Support

Bitget Wallet offers native support for TRON, allowing users to create TRC20 wallets, manage TRX and USDT, and interact with TRON-based dApps like JustLend and SunSwap. The wallet’s integrated dApp browser provides seamless access to the TRON ecosystem, enhancing your crypto experience.

2. InstantGas and Cross-Chain Swaps

With Bitget Wallet’s InstantGas feature, you can swap tokens without needing TRX for gas fees – a game-changer for new users. Additionally, the wallet supports cross-chain swaps involving TRX across many mainnets, ensuring a seamless and convenient user experience.

3. OTC and Fiat On-Ramp

Bitget Wallet’s OTC service allows you to purchase cryptocurrencies like USDT and USDC using fiat currency through various payment methods, including Visa, ApplePay, and GooglePay. This feature simplifies the process of acquiring TRC20 tokens directly within the wallet.

Security: Built for Peace of Mind

Bitget Wallet prioritizes user security through multiple layers of protection:

  • Multi-Party Computation (MPC): Encrypts private keys, ensuring they are never fully exposed.
  • Hardware Wallet Integration: Supports hardware wallets for enhanced security.
  • $300 Million User Protection Fund: Provides reimbursement in case of security breaches.
  • Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds an extra layer of security to your account.

These features collectively ensure that your assets are safeguarded against potential threats.

User Experience: Designed for Everyone

Bitget Wallet is crafted to cater to both crypto novices and experts:

  • Intuitive Interface: Simplifies navigation and asset management.
  • Comprehensive Features: Offers token management, swapping, staking, and portfolio tracking tools.
  • Multi-Language Support: Available in multiple languages, including Vietnamese, to serve a global user base.

These elements make Bitget Wallet a user-friendly platform for managing your TRC20 assets.

Additional Features: Beyond the Basics

NFT Marketplace

Bitget Wallet integrates a multi-chain NFT marketplace, allowing users to manage and trade NFTs across different blockchains. This feature supports over 220,000 NFT collections and has facilitated over $40 million in trading volume.

DeSci Ecosystem Access

The wallet provides access to the decentralized science (DeSci) ecosystem, enabling users to participate in projects and access real-time data.

Staking and Token Swapping

Users can stake tokens and perform swaps directly within the wallet, streamlining the process of earning rewards and managing assets.

PayFi: Passive Income Made Simple

Bitget Wallet’s PayFi feature lets users earn yield instantly without lock-up periods or complex staking processes. Assets begin generating interest as soon as they’re deposited, and withdrawals can be made anytime. With one-tap staking and partnerships with trusted, audited protocols, PayFi delivers stable APYs in a user-friendly and secure way – making it a practical solution for both crypto beginners and experienced users.

How to Set Up Your TRC20 Wallet in Bitget Wallet

  1. Download Bitget Wallet: Available on Google Play, App Store, or as a Chrome extension.
  2. Create a Wallet: Launch the app and select “Create A Wallet.”
  3. Select TRON Mainnet: During the setup, choose “TRON” to enable TRC20 support.
  4. Start Managing Assets: Your TRC20 wallet is now ready for transactions, swaps, and more.

Bitget Wallet: A Smarter Choice for TRON Users

Bitget Wallet stands out as the most user-friendly and feature-rich TRC20 wallet in 2025. Its comprehensive support for the TRON ecosystem, robust security measures, and intuitive design make it an ideal choice for both new and experienced users.

Ready to experience seamless TRC20 asset management? Download Bitget Wallet today and take control of your crypto journey.

Carolinas Unite Against Offshore Drilling as Republican and Democratic Governors Press Trump

0

In a rare show of bipartisan unity, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and North Carolina Governor Josh Stein are jointly calling on the Trump administration to uphold its moratorium on offshore oil and gas drilling along the Carolinas’ coastline.

The governors submitted a joint appeal to federal officials overseeing the 11th National Outer Continental Shelf Oil and Gas Leasing Program. They are urging the removal of North Carolina and South Carolina’s outer continental shelf lands from future leasing consideration.

“Because of the significant risks associated with offshore oil and gas exploration, development and production off the Carolina coasts, every North Carolina and South Carolina coastal municipality has passed a resolution opposing offshore drilling and seismic testing,” wrote Governors Stein and McMaster in a joint press release. “This position has been reaffirmed by other municipalities and counties, as well as state legislators and members of our Congressional delegations from both parties. We ask you to respect the wishes of our states and our coastal communities and reaffirm President Trump’s decision to protect our coastlines and the industries they support.”

Their request references two presidential memoranda issued by former President Donald Trump on September 8 and 25, 2020. Those actions shielded the waters off both states from federal leasing activity through June 30, 2032 — a move both governors now seek to protect.

Together, the Carolinas span 513 miles of ocean beaches and over 6,250 miles of total coastline. The region supports more than 2.7 million residents and includes critical wildlife habitats. In 2021 alone, coastal counties in both states generated $9.6 billion in GDP, supported over 125,000 jobs, and paid out $3.8 billion in wages.

Leaders warn that offshore drilling would jeopardize major industries such as tourism, fishing, recreation, and shipbuilding. Both governors argue that any disruption could undermine the region’s environmental assets and its economic strength.

Governor Stein, a Democrat, has long opposed offshore drilling and previously fought such efforts as North Carolina’s attorney general in 2020. Governor McMaster, a Republican, has also consistently advocated for protecting South Carolina’s coastal resources.

The call comes as federal agencies prepare the next iteration of the national leasing program. Industry stakeholders and environmental groups are expected to weigh in before final decisions are made.