Legislators left state employees and retirees without a raise or COLA last year. This May, we're showing up together to demand better — for our pay, our benefits, and our future.
Watch highlights from a previous SEANC Lobby Day — members just like you, walking the halls of the General Assembly and demanding to be heard.
Legislators failed to pass a state budget last year — leaving every state employee and retiree without a raise or cost-of-living adjustment. The Short Session is starting. We need to be there.
The General Assembly failed to pass a budget, leaving state employees without a single pay increase or cost-of-living adjustment in 2024–25.
The Short Session is the window to act on a new budget. Lawmakers need to hear directly from the people their decisions affect — that's you.
Legislators listen when members show up in person. Lobby Day is your chance to look your representative in the eye and ask them to put state employees first.
The State Health Plan and Retirement System need better funding. SEANC will push for protections that keep your benefits secure long-term.
The event runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Here's how the day unfolds.
Gather on the Capitol Grounds for a welcome and briefing from SEANC Executive Director Ardis Watkins, President Wendell Powell, and special guests. You'll receive talking points and your legislator assignments.
Together, we'll walk from the Capitol to the Legislative Building to meet with our lawmakers and advocate directly for pay raises, COLAs, and better funding for the State Health Plan and Retirement System.
Lunch will be provided back at the Capitol. This is a great time to connect with fellow members, share stories, and recharge before the afternoon. The event wraps up at 2 p.m.
A few important details to help you plan your trip to Raleigh.
State Capitol Grounds, Raleigh, NC. We'll walk to the Legislative Building together after the morning briefing.
Members provide their own transportation. Carpooling is strongly encouraged — downtown parking is limited. Coordinate with your district!
9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. No shuttle service provided. Plan lodging if traveling from far away.
SEANC will provide lunch. That's why we need your RSVP by April 24 — we're counting heads!
We'll send talking points and downtown parking/map information closer to May 6. Watch for updates via email.
Districts that want to help fund the event: make checks payable to SEANC, write "Lobby Day" in the memo, and send to Brenda Williams Brown.
The most powerful conversations happen when you know who represents you. Look up your NC House and Senate legislators now so you're ready to make a direct, personal ask on May 6.
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We meet at the NC State Capitol Grounds at 9 a.m. — 1 E Edenton St, Raleigh, NC 27601. Downtown parking is limited, so carpool when possible.
Nearby parking options:
Carpooling is strongly encouraged — coordinate with your district before the event.
We need a headcount for lunch. Please RSVP using the form below so we know to expect you on May 6.
SEANC Lobby Day — May 6, 2026 | State Capitol, Raleigh, NC
Help us build the biggest Lobby Day turnout in SEANC history. Download the flier and share it with your coworkers and district members.
Download the Flier Full Event Details