State budget talks are taking place now behind the scene between leaders in the House and Senate. SEANC's lobbyists continue to press the need for better raises and bonuses in conversations and meetings at the legislature.

Senate Leader Phil Berger stated this week that though there continues to be disagreement on some issues, he expects a plan to be agreed upon and sent to the governor before the start of the new fiscal year on July 1.

With the budget debate coming down to the wire, it's important that members weigh in now! Click the button below to tell your legislators to support meaningful raises and investment in public services. Also, be on the lookout next week for more opportunities from SEANC to take action!

Executive Director Ardis Watkins sat down with The News & Observer's Capitol Bureau Chief Dawn Vaughan for a full episode of the popular Under the Dome podcast this week. The wide-ranging discussion followed SEANC's press conference last week with agency leaders to highlight the vacancy crisis.

Also, Watkins and President Martha Fowler discussed the issues facing state employees and retirees and what's at stake in this year's state budget debate in the video below.

We're calling on legislators to pass a 5% raise this year, a 5% raise next year, a significant bonus to recruit and retain employees, and a 2% cost-of-living adjustment for retirees.