Large-Scale Menhaden Fishing Banned

Thursday, May 24 2012 by Isaac-Davy Aronson

A ban goes into effect today on an industrial-scale method of fishing for menhaden off the North Carolina coast. The ban was approved earlier this month by the state Marine Fisheries Commission. Patricia Smith is with the state Division of Marine Fisheries.

Patricia Smith: The Commission members basically said that they were concerned about the bycatch associated with the use of these nets and these operations. And they'd also gotten quite a few complaints and were concerned about just the conflicts that arise between these operations and recreational fishermen.

The fishing method that's now prohibited involves a large ship deploying several smaller vessels, which use drawstring nets called purse seines to scoop up menhaden. Smith says the nets sometimes catch other fish, including some species the division is trying to protect. Menhaden is used largely for bait, but is also processed into fertilizer and dietary supplements. Smith says that industry has been steadily shrinking in North Carolina.

A bill that would codify the ban in state law has been approved by a legislative committee.

Federal Agency Looking At Prepaid Cards

Thursday, May 24 2012 by Gurnal Scott

Eric Hodge: A federal agency is looking to better regulate prepaid cards. Gurnal Scott reports the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau held a meeting in Durham yesterday.

Gurnal Scott: The C-F-S-B says people who put money on prepaid cards don't know about charges to withdraw money or even get information on their accounts. The cards aren't attached to any bank. Durham resident Amy Matthews found out after trying to get to the money she put on a card.

Amy Matthews: I mean every time you want to use your money they want to charge you to use your money. If you want to get a hold of your money they charge you for your money.

That's why the C-F-S-B is working to put stronger rules on prepaid cards. State Attorney General Roy Cooper says a changing economy requires it.

Roy Cooper: Many vendors don't take cash anymore..so many consumers don't have the option without that card.

The agency is listening to comments and personal stories. It hopes to have new prepaid card rules drafted by late next year.

Senate Leader Explains Education Plan

Wednesday, May 23 2012 by Jessica Jones

Catherine Brand: Republican Senate leader Phil Berger introduced an education reform package to lawmakers today. Capitol Bureau Chief Jessica Jones reports if pased, it would cost 440 million dollars over five years.

Jessica Jones: Berger explained the legislation earlier today in a committee meeting. It has attracted controversy because it would end teacher tenure, to the chagrin of some educators. Berger says bad teachers should be weeded out. The measure would also require evaluations of all entering kindergarten students.

Phil Berger: The purpose is to make sure we know where those kids are when they start. The side benefit of that is that we should be able to track data on where those kids come from. Have they come out of a Pre-K program. Are they someone that would have qualified for a pre-K program but didn't have one.

Some lawmakers have asked whether the bill should provide more money for the state's pre-K program, which lawmakers cut back last year. The measure is expected to be discussed again next week.

 

House Committee Passes Eugenics Compensation Bill

Wednesday, May 23 2012 by Gurnal Scott

Eric Hodge: The House Judiciary Committee has passed a eugenics compensation bill that would pay money to victims and the families. Gurnal Scott reports

Rep. Larry Womble: I'm beginning to see some light at the end of this long journey.

Gurnal Scott: Forsyth County Representative Larry Womble -- slowed by injuries from a car accident last year -- came back to see the bill he sponsored through. It sets aside 10 million dollars to pay victims of forced sterilization 50 thousand dollars each. Representative George Cleveland of Onslow County was one of two committee members who spoke against the bill.

Rep. George Cleveland: I personally have a problem with compensation. People today paying for something that happened in the past I do not believe is correct.

Eugenics victim Elaine Riddick was upset by that.

Elaine Riddick: I mean that just brought the eugenics right back. The eugenics is alive in full force in North Carolina.

The House Finance Committee will consider the bill next.