State Budget & Gambling: North Carolina’s new $34B budget raises the sports-betting tax on operators from 18% to 23% and opens the door to taxing prediction markets, with more money flowing to public university athletics. Healthcare Costs: The NC State Health Plan board approved a 5% premium increase and a tiered “preferred provider” list that includes UNC Health, Novant Health and Iredell Health Systems. Medicaid Fraud: Attorney General Jeff Jackson says a Greensboro clinic owner pleaded guilty after submitting $1.7M in fake urine drug test claims to Medicaid. Workforce & Industry: Nippon Electric Glass plans to lay off 280+ employees at its Shelby R&D site, triggering North Carolina’s rapid response for workers. Local Economy & Jobs: Mavis Tires & Brakes opened a new Albemarle location, adding jobs and services for drivers. Environment & Development: Martin Marietta is seeking a 358-acre limestone quarry expansion in New Hanover County, drawing wetland concerns from residents. Public Safety & Health: A new winter sports safety law signed by Gov. Josh Stein makes it a Class 1 misdemeanor to ski without a valid pass and to leave a skier-collision scene without identifying yourself.