We’re glad to see the Governor weigh in — but for members who’ve been sounding the alarm since May, it’s a little late. Wake County commissioners are set to meet Sept. 8, and the merger could be on the agenda. If you’re able, show up and make your voice heard.
This isn’t just a Raleigh issue — it affects every State Health Plan member, no matter where you live in North Carolina.
We also break down WakeMed’s timing problem: while the system argues it needs Atrium’s money to survive, it’s simultaneously asking the state for approval on more than $919 million in new hospitals and expansions across Wake County — including new facilities in Rolesville and Wendell and expansions in Raleigh and Cary. That’s not the balance sheet of a system that’s struggling.
We also take a few minutes to remember Dolly Parton, who died this week at 80. Beyond the music, we talk about her Imagination Library and the mark she left on all of us.
Gov. Stein Emails State Employees on New Workforce Law
Gov. Josh Stein also sent a message to all state employees this week outlining the Public Workforce Modernization Act, which takes effect Oct. 1. The law expands paid parental leave to 12 weeks for both parents, creates new performance leave and bonus options, and adds support for military spouses seeking state jobs. The email is below.
We covered this law in depth on last week’s podcast episode with State Human Resources Director Staci Meyer — worth a listen if you want the details behind the Governor’s summary.
Dear Colleagues,
I want to thank you for the work you do every day for North Carolina. Whether you are caring for our roads and parks, supporting veterans and military families, protecting public health and keeping our communities safe, or delivering one of the many other services North Carolinians rely on every day, your work makes a difference in every corner of our state.
Last month, I signed the Public Workforce Modernization Act into law to make important investments in you and the future of our state. The law invests in employees by expanding paid parental leave to 12 weeks for both parents and by rewarding strong performance through options like performance leave and bonuses. It also supports military families by helping spouses of service members find roles in state government. Additionally, it strengthens the future workforce by introducing work-based learning opportunities and skills‑based hiring programs that will help us attract the next generation of public servants.
This law a big deal, but our work is not done. I am grateful to everyone who took part in our first Employee Viewpoint Survey. Hearing from you is one of the best ways for us to understand what is working, where we can do better, and which tools would help you succeed. We look forward to sharing the insights you shared with us and will use what we learn to make it easier for you to serve our state.
North Carolina is stronger because of you – the people who choose public service. I chose to work in state government 25 years ago because I wanted to make a difference, and I remain committed to making sure our state government is a place where talented people can build careers, support their families, and do meaningful work. Thank you for your dedication and your continued service to our state.
