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The Big Story

Simple, easy and affordable were the buzz words for the newly passed North Carolina State Health Plan benefits for teachers and state employees Tuesday.
The State Health Plan Board of Trustees has been tasked with tackling a $507 million shortfall.
The board approved a new cost-sharing bundling program to resolve claims in a lump sum payment for an ongoing health condition, a shift from making individual payments for each visit or service rendered for that health condition.

Your Weather Planner

After a night of scattered showers and thunderstorms, most places will be dry by daybreak. 

Cooler and drier air will take over for the rest of the workweek and into the beginning of the holiday weekend.

Get the full forecast of areas around the state:
Charlotte | Triad | Triangle | Coastal | Mountains


Watch the latest local news and get your Weather on the 1s.

Around North Carolina

1. Self-driving cars to help rural communities in N.C.? Researchers look at the potential

N.C. A&T State University's transportation research and a cutting-edge driving simulator are attracting the attention of state leaders. The school is gathering data to help with research on autonomous cars and transportation planning in rural and underserved communities. 

2. 'It was very trying': Justice Riggs on delayed race experience

North Carolina Supreme Court Associate Justice Allison Riggs was recently sworn in to her seat on the state’s highest court after an election dispute that dragged on almost half a year. Her opponent Jefferson Griffin this month said that he would not appeal a federal judge’s decision favoring Riggs, conceding the race.  “I’m very grateful this is settled,” Riggs said.

3. Federal cuts leave food pantries struggling to keep shelves stocked

Food deliveries have dropped significantly since the U.S. Department of Agriculture slashed $500 million from funding intended for food banks, says Hattie McNealy, director of Care to Share Outreach of Charlotte. Her pantry feeds thousands of families across the region. “We need help and we’re not getting it,” she said.

Around The Nation

1. On Capitol Hill, Trump works to persuade divided GOP to unify around his 'big, beautiful bill'

2. Trump unveils plans for $175 billion 'Golden Dome' missile defense system

3. George Wendt, who played a beloved barfly on 'Cheers' and found another home onstage, dies at 76

Editor's Pick - 82nd Airborne honors fallen soldiers in memorial

There are several monuments at the All American Museum at Fort Bragg. They’re filled with the names of paratroopers from the legendary 82nd Airborne Division who’ve either been killed in combat or during training. Every year during the division’s celebration known as All American Week, a poignant ceremony pays a loving tribute to all the men and women named on those monuments.