State lawmakers are calling for stronger efforts to investigate fraud and abuse in North Carolina's Medicaid system. A state House committee held a nearly three-hour hearing Thursday on the topic, questioning Attorney General Jeff Jackson and Health and Human Services Secretary Dev Sangvai.

Public schools across North Carolina are seeing enrollment declines, resulting in reductions in state funding. As districts prepare their budgets under these financial constraints, many are making difficult decisions to close schools.

The Guilford County School Board voted to request a nearly $25 million budget increase from the county. They also canceled school for students on May 1, when teachers plan to protest in Raleigh.

The drought that began in August continues in North Carolina, where roughly 70% of the state is experiencing severe drought conditions. Raleigh and Statesville are among a handful of cities that are currently enforcing water restrictions.