A North Carolina bill, SB 58, aims to prevent the state’s attorneys general from participating in litigation seeking to invalidate executive orders issued by the President of the United States. The bill passed in the GOP-controlled state Senate and is set for consideration by the House. Attorney General Jeff Jackson, a Democrat, has challenged federal actions in several lawsuits since taking office. Supporters of the bill argue that it is necessary to prevent attorneys general from using the courts to shape public policy. Opponents, including Sen. Graig Meyer, believe that limiting the attorney general’s power would hinder their ability to defend the state’s interests. Governor Josh Stein is expected to veto the bill, but House Republicans may override it with one Democratic vote. Critics of the bill, such as the John Locke Foundation, argue that it is an attempt to restrain the attorney general and prioritize the legislature’s legal strategy over the state’s best interests.
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