Easley approves incentive package

(Charlotte Observer) - The General Assembly pushed North Carolina's business incentives to a new level Tuesday, agreeing to give up to $60 million to select companies that remain in the state, even if they cut jobs.

Lawmakers ended up passing a corporate incentives bill distinctly similar to one that Easley vetoed last month, which is what brought them all to Raleigh this week. The key differences in the legislation approved Tuesday are that Easley approved of the new version, with protections for jobs and workers added. And it gives out $60 million -- $20 million more than the one he vetoed.