Lawmakers debate incentives

Legislative committee members said they don't like luring businesses with targeted incentives but said it's necessary to be competitive.

"Do I prefer doing something other than incentives? Yes, I do. Is it a reality in this state and nation? No, it's not," said Rep. Mitch Gillespie, R-McDowell.

North Carolina provided lucrative packages to attract companies like Dell, Google and FedEx to the state.

Despite the tough economy and a projected $2 billion budget deficit, lawmakers are expected to continue the tax breaks.