Benjamin Niolet, Raleigh News and Observer

North Carolina House Speaker Joe Hackney at the White House (March 20th, 2009). In his capacity as President of NCSL (National Conference of State Legislators), Speaker Hackney makes remarks at meeting with NCSL members and President Barack Obama.

Below is an expert from Governing magazine. Click here to read the full article.

Rep. Joe Hackney was elected Wednesday to a second term as Speaker of the North Carolina House of Representatives.

Rep. Holliman elected majority leader; Rep. Wainwright nominated as Speaker Pro Tem

North Carolina Democrats are committed to improving the lives of all who call our great state home.

In the past year, we’ve made great strides in health care, education, public safety and ethics reform.

Here’s a summary:

Health

- Legislators are concerned about the dangers of secondhand smoke. We passed a bill (HB 24) that bans smoking in buildings owned, leased, or occupied by state government. Under the new law, local governments have the authority to regulate smoking in buildings and vehicles they use.

- Another new law prohibits smoking in long-term care facilities. The law (HB 1294) prohibits smoking in adult care homes, nursing homes, and any other facilities that provide long-term care.