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N.C. Rep. Haire sworn in to fourth term
Phil Haire, Jackson County's representative to the N.C. House, was sworn in to his fourth two-year term Jan. 26.
In addition to Jackson, Haire represents Haywood, Macon and Swain counties.
Haire's family and friends were on hand to witness the swearing-in ceremony of the 120 House members by N.C. Associate Supreme Court Justice Sarah Parker.
This year marks the General Assembly's 147th session.
"I am honored by the trust and support of my constituents who once again have given me the opportunity to serve our district and our state in the General Assembly," Haire said. "Our state faces some significant challenges and I will work hard each and every day to ensure that our families are safe and that their economic future is bright."
Haire said his top priorities in the Legislature will continue to be improving the state's economy and creating new jobs for Western North Carolina, improving education from early childhood through adulthood, reducing crime and making health care more affordable and accessible.
Lawmakers will soon begin work on writing the state budget, which must be passed by the start of the new fiscal year July 1. Legislature economists recently announced that the state is facing a budget shortfall of approximately $1.2 billion.
The 2005 General Assembly session is expected to last until mid-summer. A typical schedule for legislators during session begins on Monday evening, continues through Tuesday and Wednesday, and concludes early on Thursday afternoon.
2005-2006 committee assignments for House members are expected to be announced in coming weeks.
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