North Carolina House and Senate leaders have reached a deal on Medicaid funding and oversight reforms, marking a key breakthrough early in the short session. The agreement comes as a JDIG incentive is being used to support a pharmaceutical manufacturer in Durham, boosting economic development. Meanwhile, school districts across the state are adjusting schedules ahead of a planned May 1 teacher protest, anticipating staffing shortages. In election law, the State Board of Elections is seeking a three-judge panel to hear the “never residents” voting case. At the legislature, pressure is building with a proposed “no budget, no pay” bill aimed at lawmakers as budget negotiations continue.