UPDATED: The General Assembly is preparing for a late night -- with the Senate adjournment expected just after midnight. But it won't end in the ceremonial hanky drop and bell ringing.
The Senate plans to adjourn just after midnight -- likely 12:30 a.m. But the House will not adjourn tonight. House Speaker Thom Tillis said the House will return Tuesday morning to finish its business and not work through the night.
At the end of session, the chambers traditionally drop the hanky at the same time and a bell is run. Both chambers then gather in the rotunda to shake hands before leaving town. But the GOP -- holding power for the first time in more than a century -- will miss the occassion.
The Senate recessed until 9:30 p.m. And the House will finish a bit of work and do the same. Much work remains undone -- particularly in the House which needs to consider the governor's budget and fracking vetoes still.
