Governor Josh Stein Vetoes Bills Related to Immigration Enforcement and Gun Regulations
RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina Governor Josh Stein on Friday vetoed three pieces of legislation, including two bills aimed at enhancing cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities. Stein cited constitutional concerns and public safety in his veto decisions.
One of the vetoed measures, House Bill 318, would have required local sheriffs to inform federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) when individuals charged with serious crimes—such as sexual battery, arson, armed robbery, and assault on public officials—were taken into custody. While Stein acknowledged the intent of the bill to hold individuals accountable for violent crimes, he opposed the provision that would require sheriffs to detain individuals for up to 48 hours past their scheduled release for potential immigration violations.
In an official statement, Stein emphasized the importance of upholding the Constitution, referencing judicial precedent which states that local law enforcement officers cannot detain individuals solely based on suspected immigration violations. He reaffirmed that anyone committing serious crimes in North Carolina should be prosecuted, regardless of their immigration status.
Several sheriffs expressed support for Stein’s veto, including Guilford County Sheriff Danny Rogers and Forsyth County Sheriff Bobby Kimbrough. They highlighted the importance of building community trust and protecting constitutional rights.
Republican lawmakers, including Senate Leader Phil Berger, criticized Stein’s decision, accusing him of catering to certain donor interests and expressed intentions to seek an override of the veto.
Stein also vetoed Senate Bill 50, which would have allowed individuals as young as 18 to carry concealed firearms without a permit or training. He stated that the measure would compromise public safety by eliminating training requirements and lowering the age restriction for carrying concealed weapons.
Sen. Berger responded critically, arguing that law-abiding citizens should not face obstacles in exercising their Second Amendment rights.
Despite these vetoes, Stein signed House Bill 126 into law, which updates the procedures for public hearings related to farmland condemnation and rezoning within agricultural districts, effective October 1, 2025. This signing is part of a broader effort to support rural communities, which included a recent announcement of a $3 million investment by the state for infrastructure improvements and job creation in rural counties through grants approved by the Rural Infrastructure Authority.
