Happy St. Patrick’s Day! I hope you had a great weekend.
It was a pleasure to meet with members of the state branch of Coaches vs. Overdoses at the State House.
The Coaches vs. Overdoses program is a national campaign to provide coaches, parents, student-athletes, and communities with resources to tackle fentanyl and defeat overdoses. Founded in 2022 with the help of NFL Hall of Famer Randy White, who lost his son-in-law to an overdose, the program is designed to reduce overdoses through prevention awareness education and empowerment. I greatly appreciate their efforts.
Last week was budget week in the House. After casting 236 votes on various amendments, I proudly stood with House Republican Caucus members to pass a balanced, fiscally conservative budget -- one that cuts taxes, eliminates waste, and invests in the priorities that matter most to South Carolina families.
While Washington, D.C. continues to spend recklessly, we do things differently in South Carolina.
We don’t spend money we don’t have, and we prioritize the taxpayers who fund this government -- not bureaucrats and special interests.
The 2025-2026 budget is proof of that commitment. It’s a responsible plan that:
Cuts taxes: $1 billion in direct tax relief, including $800 million in property tax relief and $200 million in income tax cuts.
Invests in education: raises teacher pay, keeps college tuition low, and expands school safety.
Improves infrastructure: $200 million for roads and bridges, $20 million for water and sewer improvements.
Strengthens public safety: supports law enforcement and ensures our communities are safe.
Prepares for the future: invests in workforce development and keeping spending in check.
Our state is booming because of conservative leadership and responsible budgeting -- and we’re committed to keeping it that way. I’m proud to stand behind this budget and the real, tangible benefits it delivers.
In an effort to save taxpayers’ money, the House is on furlough this week. We’ll go back into session on March 25th.
Have a good week. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.
Rep. Lee Hewitt