RALEIGH A joint forecast from the non-partisan Fiscal Research division of the N.C. General Assembly and the State Office of Budget and Management predicts a $552 million revenue surplus over expected budget expenses.Senate leader Phil Berger credited the Republican leadership for the fiscal results.”Even as the majority of other states face revenue shortfalls and budget crunches, Republican state leaders’ tax cuts and disciplined spending have generated a $552 million revenue surplus for North Carolina making us one of just four states in the country expecting surpluses,” said Berger in a statement. “We hope Gov. Cooper will rethink his pledge to block job-creating future tax cuts for families and small businesses and instead partner with legislative Republicans to stay the course on spending taxpayer money wisely and continuing our state’s record of success.”Gov. Roy Cooper applauded the budget news and encouraged dedicating funds to top legislative priorities like education and added disaster relief. The legislature begins budget considerations next week.
