Judge Won't Dismiss Lawsuit Challenging Special Session

A North Carolina judge says a lawsuit challenging a legislative special session last year can move forward.

The lawsuit in question challenges a special session of the North Carolina General Assembly held last December. During that session, Republicans passed bills eroding the powers of incoming Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper.

Common Cause and several voters sued, saying legislative leaders didn't give proper notice to citizens before holding the assembly.

Judge Osmond Smith on Tuesday refused a request by Republican legislative leaders and GOP Lt. Gov. Dan Forest to throw out the lawsuit. They say the session was properly called.

The News and Observer of Raleigh reports that the case will now be heard by a three-judge panel, which is required in lawsuits challenging the constitutionality of acts of the General Assembly.

The plaintiffs want the laws passed in that session nullified.