IBX News

State Sen. Bob Steinburg (R-Edenton) took to Facebook on March 31 to help warn North Carolina residents about a scam targeting their upcoming federal stimulus checks.

“Anyone calling you saying it is the IRS and they need personal information to enable the deposit of your stimulus check, it is a scandalous fraud,” Steinburg shared on Facebook. “Don’t give this info to anyone. Please share this everywhere.”

The Edenton Republican also reminded residents that their utilities won't be disconnected for the next few months. He referred to Gov. Roy Cooper's order prohibiting North Carolina utilities from disconnecting customers who can’t make their payments because of the novel coronavirus pandemic.

The governor’s 60-day executive order applies to electric, gas, water and wastewater services. Cooper also told the utilities to give residential customers at least six months to pay outstanding bills. The order prohibits utility providers from collecting fees, penalties or interest for late payment.

“These protections will help families stay in their homes and keep vital services like electricity, water, and communications going as we stay at home,” Cooper said.

Steinburg said the order covers municipalities and co-ops also.

The governor asked telecommunication companies in North Carolina that provide phone, cable and internet services to follow the same rules. Banks were asked not to charge overdraft fees, late fees and other penalties. And landlords were encouraged to delay any evictions that already are in the court system.