Cooper open to signing final NC budget expected next week

North Carolina’s extended budget negotiations will come to a head next week with the Republican-controlled House and Senate voting on a final spending plan. Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper has suggested he could sign it into law, even though he wouldn’t get everything he wants. Senate leader Phil Berger’s office and budget-writer Rep. Jason Saine confirmed Wednesday that votes are coming on a two-year government budget. A statement from Cooper's office said the plan will contain a number of his priorities, including increased education funding. He said he'll sign or veto the measure based on what is best for the people of North Carolina.