Governor Stein's Budget: Prioritizing Public Safety, Community Protection, and Emergency Preparedness
Budget delivers a broad and integrated approach to public safety, combining traditional law enforcement support with forward-looking strategies like violence prevention, and cybersecurity.
Holly Springs, NC, Mar. 31, 2025—Governor Josh Stein’s 2025–27 Recommended Budget dedicates substantial funding to improving public safety and community well-being across North Carolina. Focusing on violence prevention, law enforcement support, emergency response, and cybersecurity, the proposal aims to create safer environments for residents in both urban and rural areas.
Investing in Violence Prevention and Safer Communities
The budget includes $10 million per year for community violence intervention programs, aiming to reduce gun violence and other forms of serious crime through partnerships with local groups. These programs use data-informed strategies and neighborhood-based outreach to prevent shootings before they happen.
Another $10 million annually is allocated to local governments for public safety projects, including infrastructure upgrades like street lighting and surveillance systems that improve neighborhood safety.
The proposal also provides $8.6 million over the biennium to expand the Department of Justice's Violent Crime and Firearms Enforcement Unit. These funds will support prosecutors and criminal investigators who work with local and federal agencies to investigate and prosecute organized crime, gun trafficking, and serial violent offenders.
“Our communities should be safe places to live, work, and raise families,” the budget states, underscoring the administration’s commitment to proactive safety measures.
Supporting Law Enforcement and First Responders
To bolster the law enforcement workforce, the budget includes $3.5 million in recurring funds for the Criminal Justice Fellows Program, which provides forgivable loans to individuals pursuing criminal justice careers in underserved areas.
The State Highway Patrol will receive $3.6 million over the biennium to recruit and retain troopers. This investment is intended to keep staffing levels strong across North Carolina’s growing transportation network.
Additional funding will support sheriffs, jailers, and other public safety personnel training. The budget proposes more than $5 million for facility upgrades and basic law enforcement training at regional sheriff training centers.
Strengthening Emergency Management and Cybersecurity
With natural disasters becoming more frequent and complex, the budget dedicates $9 million to the Department of Public Safety’s emergency management operations. These funds will improve the state’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from hurricanes, wildfires, and other significant events.
Cybersecurity is another top concern. The budget calls for an $8 million investment to strengthen North Carolina’s cyber defenses, including protections for election infrastructure, state agencies, and local government systems.
Improving Juvenile Justice and Reentry Services
Recognizing the importance of early intervention and rehabilitation, the budget increases support for juvenile justice programs, including expanded access to mental health services and alternatives to detention. It also invests in job training and education for incarcerated individuals to reduce recidivism and support reentry into society.
“We must ensure people who serve their time have the opportunity to become productive members of their communities,” the proposal notes.
Summary
Governor Stein’s budget delivers a broad and integrated approach to public safety, combining traditional law enforcement support with forward-looking strategies like violence prevention, disaster preparedness, and cybersecurity. With targeted funding and a long-term view, the proposal aims to make North Carolina safer, more resilient, and just.