North Carolina Senate Republicans pass public mask-wearing restrictions into law after key revisions

In a controversial move, North Carolina's restrictions on public mask-wearing have been solidified into law after GOP lawmakers successfully overrode a veto by the state's Democratic governor. The Senate's 30-14 override vote along party lines, following the state House's lead, marks another instance of the GOP-dominated General Assembly overturning gubernatorial vetoes. The law, with immediate effect, permits the use of medical-grade masks in public while imposing harsher penalties for crimes committed while masked and for protesters blocking traffic. Additionally, a campaign finance provision allowing unlimited contributions from individuals to state political parties was added during negotiations. The legislation faced initial opposition due to the removal of a health exemption, raising concerns about the impact on immunocompromised individuals. However, GOP legislators later included exemptions for health and religious reasons to address these worries. Despite this, Democratic lawmakers are now primarily focused on the election finance provision, fearing it will lead to a lack of transparency in elections. The law also includes a provision targeting demonstrators who block roadways, set to take effect on December 1. Supporters of the bill, such as Wilson County Republican Sen. Buck Newton, view the law as a necessary step to curb what they perceive as chaos. Meanwhile, more than 30 individuals were detained at a protest encampment at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, highlighting ongoing tensions surrounding various issues. With Republicans holding narrow supermajorities in both chambers, the passage of this law underscores the ongoing political divide in North Carolina and the broader implications it may have on public health and civil liberties.