I hope you had a great weekend. Here’s my legislative report.
Rep. Carl Anderson, D-Georgetown, and I had an opportunity to meet with members of the Georgetown County 4H Club at the State House last week. They are a great group of young leaders. I think the 4H pledge is something we should all strive to live by: “I pledge my head to clearer thinking, my heart to greater loyalty, my hands to larger service, and my health to better living, for my club, my community, my country, and my world.”
Last week was budget week in the House. After casting 236 votes on Monday and Tuesday on various amendments and provisos, we passed a responsible, balanced State Budget that focuses on the core responsibilities of government while returning money to taxpayers. It invests in the priorities that matter most to South Carolina families.
The budget includes more than $1 billion in tax relief while continuing to invest in critical priorities like infrastructure, education, workforce development, and public safety.
On Tuesday, the House also passed H.4216, a bill I cosponsored, that will deliver one of the most significant income tax reductions in state history.
For years, South Carolina had one of the highest income tax rates in the Southeast. This legislation will move our state toward a simpler, more competitive tax system that encourages job creation, strengthens our economy, and helps families keep more of their hard-earned money.
The House also passed tax conformity legislation, H.3368, another bill I cosponsored. The bill aligns the state’s tax code with federal provisions so taxpayers can benefit from federal tax relief measures, including provisions from the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” while also simplifying the filing process and preventing unexpected tax increases.
By updating South Carolina’s tax code, we are ensuring that hardworking families, workers, and small businesses can take advantage of policies that allow them to keep more of the money they earn.
By keeping government focused on its core responsibilities while lowering taxes and investing wisely, we are continuing to build a stronger and more affordable South Carolina.
Have a good week. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.
Rep. Lee Hewitt