As a child advocate, I was frequently in contact with Rep. Jim Fulghum, whose recent death has shocked and dismayed us all. Though we didn’t agree on all issues, Rep. Fulghum cared deeply about children’s health and he was always approachable, thoughtful and considerate – traits to which we all aspire.
Just a few weeks ago we approached him regarding a significant budget reduction in services for infants and toddlers with disabilities that is soon slated to go into effect. He heard us out, carefully reviewed all the data, and responded: “We may have screwed up. We need to revisit the issue.”
His humility and open-mindedness were rare.
Rep. Fulghum served on the Child Fatality Task Force and was passionate about child health and safety. In 2013, when there was an effort to eliminate the Task Force, Rep. Fulghum led the movement to preserve it. His advocacy was bold and effective, particularly for a freshman lawmaker.
We will miss Rep. Fulghum for his kindness, leadership, and passion for children’s health.
Tom Vitaglione
Senior Fellow
NC Child