Good morning Wilmington!

While Wilmington heads into a weekend of blues festivals, blueberry pie, and birthday bashes, lawmakers in Raleigh were busy rewriting environmental and economic policy. On Thursday, the NC General Assembly finalized a bill that scraps the state’s 2030 carbon reduction goal—eliminating a key milestone in a 2021 climate law. Catch up below—and then scroll down for your weekend game plan.

In today’s Port City Pulse:

• "Neighbor State License Recognition Act" Advances

• Shrimp Trawling Ban Tucked into Fishing Bill Advances

North Carolina Moves to Welcome Skilled Workers with Faster Licensing

[Carolina Journal] North Carolina is poised to streamline professional licensing for new residents from neighboring states under the newly advanced "Neighbor State License Recognition Act" (House Bill 763). The bill allows workers licensed in Georgia, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, or West Virginia to quickly obtain equivalent licenses in NC without restarting the entire process—though it excludes fields like healthcare, law, finance, and engineering. Supporters say the bill helps ease workforce shortages, especially in the wake of Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. Critics question why NC should recognize other states’ licenses unilaterally if the favor isn't returned.

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Shrimp Trawling Ban Tucked into Fishing Bill Passes NC Senate

[WUNC] A surprise provision banning inshore shrimp trawling in North Carolina waters passed the state Senate on Thursday, triggering backlash from commercial fishermen and coastal leaders. The ban was inserted into House Bill 442—originally aimed at extending recreational seasons for overfished species like flounder and red snapper—without prior public notice. Supporters say the move protects fish stocks, but opponents argue it will devastate the shrimping industry and bypass established marine management processes. The bill passed 41-4, with all opposition coming from Republicans representing coastal districts. It now heads to the House.

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News Roundup

Local News

• At least two people were injured when a car veered onto a sidewalk near the Wilmington Convention Center. The crash happened Thursday afternoon and remains under investigation, with no word yet on the cause or whether charges will be filed.
  WECT News

• Body of missing Holden Beach swimmer found. The 23-year-old was last seen Monday evening; strong inlet currents are believed to have pulled him under.
  WECT News

• Carolina Beach Police are warning of a scam involving fake gold bars being sold at gas stations and parking lots. Scammers are posing as federal agencies asking to turn their assets into gold bars.
  WECT News

• A Wilmington veterinary center is relocating and will offer the city’s first pet MRI service. The Atlantic Animal Hospital & Pet Care Resort plans to expand to a new facility on South College Road, increasing specialty care access for pets in the region.
  WWAY News

What You Should Know

• More than 16 billion accounts could be at risk due to a massive password leak tied to Apple, Facebook, and Google users. Experts are urging the public to change their passwords immediately and enable two-factor authentication where possible.
  The Sun

• An Iranian missile hit a hospital in Beersheba, causing heavy damage and dozens of injuries. Central Israeli cities were also struck in the ongoing conflict escalation between Israel and Iran.
  The Times of Israel

What Might Surprise You

• Police Video Caught Diamond Swallower In Act. Suspect consumed $770k worth of stolen Tiffany & Co. baubles. Smoking Gun

• The LA Dodgers have come under fire from Immigration and Customs Enforcement after the team claimed they denied agents access to their grounds on Thursday. ICE hit back, saying the claim was "false" and they "were never there." The Sun

• Lakers being sold in $10 billion NBA bombshell. It marks the largest sale ever of a U.S. pro sports franchise. New York Post

71st Birthday Bash for Mark Romeo

SAT JUN 21 @ Wilmington Distillery - ILM

Mark Romeo turns 71 and the treasured Talking Tunes live music network that he supports and runs turns 5. Come to Wilmington Distillery around 8:00 Pm to help celebrate with Mark Romeo and all of his friends, including Frank Grant & The Feelin’.

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Friday

Saturday

Sunday