RALEIGH — As WRAL-TV5 first reported last week, North Carolina schools are paying millions of dollars in state taxes while other organizations and agencies do not. Bret Baier's special reports prompted a flood of viewer response. Now those concerned citizens are stirring debate in the General Assembly.

While there is a long way to go before the bill becomes law, the powerful House Finance Committee looked favorably on a sales tax exemption for schools.

The committee's presentation was unusual. Representative's watched WRAL's report on a television set. Representative Fern Shubert, sponsor of the bill, showed the reports to gather support.

Representative Paul Luebke (D, Durham) opposes the bill. He says he has concerns about exempting schools from the tax.

Despite some opposition, the bill cruised past the committee and will now go to the House floor.