North Carolina government would have a defined policy of refusing to earmark public funds with anyone investing in Iran's energy business in a measure that's passed one General Assembly chamber.
The Senate agreed Monday it wants to follow a 2010 federal law giving state and local governments authority to prevent investment in companies operating in Iran's energy sector. The divestment is designed to discourage Iran's ability to build nuclear weapons.
The bill directs the state treasurer to adopt a divestment policy consistent with what it had already created on its own.
Democratic Sen. Floyd McKissick of Durham questioned motives behind Monday's bill written by Republicans as several countries reached an agreement this month designed to curb Iran's nuclear program. Sen. Erica Smith-Ingram of Northampton County cast the only 'no' vote.
