North Carolina Governor Josh Stein signed a criminal justice reform bill into law, prompted by the stabbing death of a Ukrainian refugee. The law restricts cashless bail for violent and repeat offenders and mandates mental health evaluations for defendants. While Stein supported parts of the bill, he criticized its lack of ambition and failure to address his public safety proposals, including increased law enforcement pay. He also voiced strong opposition to provisions allowing for alternative execution methods like firing squads.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.