WRAL.com: Raleigh, Durham, Fayetteville

The legislative attempt to overturn outdoor smoking bans in cities, on beaches and on community college campuses has stalled in the Senate and appears unlikely to make the cut as lawmakers scramble to meet their "crossover" deadline.

The state Senate plans to unveil its budget plan for the coming fiscal year late Sunday, Appropriations Committee Chairman Sen. Pete Brunstetter said Thursday.

House lawmakers met until 11:30 p.m., killing a controversial contraception insurance coverage measure. Meanwhile, legislators prepare to roll out a new tax plan today as anti-tax crusader Grover Norquist prepares to speak at the legislative building today.

A bill banning the recognition of Islamic Sharia law is up for a final state House vote Thursday after winning tentative approval late Wednesday night.