I hope you had a great weekend. Here’s my legislative report.
Recently, the SC Pharmacy Association had their legislative day at the State House. I was privileged to introduce the group from the House podium. It was also a privilege for Rep. Val Guest, R-Horry, and I to meet with long-time Murrells Inlet pharmacist Willie Lee. I appreciate Willie’s community leadership.
The Post & Courier published my op-ed advocating a new vision for Georgetown's waterfront – one that doesn’t include smokestacks. From the op-ed:
“The recent discussions about the future of the closed International Paper mill and the nearby Liberty Steel site open the door to a bold new vision for Georgetown’s waterfront — one that balances economic growth, environmental responsibility and community well-being.
...Georgetown is blessed with a beautiful waterfront that holds tremendous potential for more than just industrial development. We are positioned to become a hub for ecotourism and smart growth, where families can enjoy a vibrant cultural scene, recreational opportunities and local businesses flourish.
...Let’s come together to advocate for a waterfront that reflects our values — one where new ideas and community guide our path forward.”
There are just two weeks left in this year’s legislative session. After a short break for Easter, we returned to the State House last week focused and ready to get to work.
From protecting religious freedom in our schools to defending First Amendment rights and ensuring fairness in high school athletics, the House Republican Caucus is putting our Pillars of Progress into action.
In today’s world, exercising your right to speak up can come with a cost—especially when powerful interests use frivolous lawsuits to intimidate citizens and silence opinions. That’s why I support the SC Public Expression Protection Act, a bill that shields individuals from legal harassment for speaking out on matters of public concern. Whether you’re speaking at a public hearing, writing an op-ed, or posting online about government actions, this bill ensures you can’t be dragged into court simply for using your voice. The bill received a favorable report from the Senate Judiciary Committee last week.
Our children should never have to hide their faith at school—and this bill makes sure they won’t have to. The updated Religious Viewpoints Antidiscrimination Act, reported favorably by the House Education and Public Works Committee last week, ensures students can voluntarily express their religious beliefs in classwork, school speeches, and events, just like any other viewpoint.
Students in home schools, charter schools, and Governor’s Schools deserve equal access to extracurriculars, career training, and interscholastic competitions. The Participation in Interscholastic Activities bill makes that possible—ensuring that every student gets the chance to grow, compete, and participate. The bill was reported favorably out of subcommittee last week.
I’m honored to represent District 108 in the House. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.
Rep. Lee Hewitt