State House lawmakers are expected to vote next week on a bill that would let judges take the death penalty off the table for capital defendants with severe mental disability.

A rift between top House leaders was on display Monday night as a bill allowing taxpayers to sue over taxes and spending is referred to the Finance Committee over the objections of House Speaker Pro Tempore Paul "Skip" Stam.

A bill backed by Rep. Paul Stam, R-Wake, would change a tax credit North Carolina provides to film and television production companies by insisting that they make money in the state before getting any credits.

Professional staff members, rather than lawmakers or consultants, would draw boundaries for legislative and congressional districts. A similar bill has passed the House in the past.