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State Rep. Eric Ager, D-Buncombe County, debates SB 743, a relief package for western North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene, Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024 at the General Assembly in Raleigh, N.C. (Robert Willett/The News & Observer via AP)

State Rep. Eric Ager, D-Buncombe County, debates SB 743, a relief package for western North Carolina in the wake of Hurricane Helene, Thursday, Oct. 24, 2024 at the General Assembly in Raleigh, N.C. (Robert Willett/The News & Observer via AP)

FILE - North Carolina state Rep. Donny Lambeth, R-Forsyth, speaks to reporters following the House Health Committee meeting at the Legislative Office Building in Raleigh, N.C., on Feb. 14, 2023. (AP Photos/Gary D. Robertson, File)

FILE - North Carolina state Rep. Donny Lambeth, R-Forsyth, speaks to reporters following the House Health Committee meeting at the Legislative Office Building in Raleigh, N.C., on Feb. 14, 2023. (AP Photos/Gary D. Robertson, File)