I hope you’re doing well.
Tuesday was Miss South Carolina Day at the State House. I was glad to meet with Gracie Hicks, Miss Lowcountry. She is the daughter of Dr. John and Lisa Hicks of Murrells Inlet.
This week in the House we focused on protecting our land, access to essential services, our elections, and strengthening school safety.
The House unanimously passed the Foreign Ownership of Land Act, which prevents foreign adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea from owning or controlling land in South Carolina. This is a commonsense step to protect our farmland, critical infrastructure, and national security.
We also unanimously passed the Guarantee Banking Act to ensure fair and equal access to banking services. This legislation follows action at the federal level, including a directive from President Trump to guarantee fair banking for all Americans after growing concerns and documented cases of financial institutions denying services based on political or ideological beliefs.
In addition, the Citizens-Only Voting Constitutional Amendment advanced in the House Judiciary Committee. This measure makes it clear that only U.S. citizens can vote in South Carolina elections, protecting the integrity of our system as other states like California, Maryland, and Vermont move to allow non-citizens to participate in certain local elections.
We took important steps to support teachers and make our schools safer for students across South Carolina.
We unanimously passed the Safe Schools Act, a major step forward in strengthening school safety. This bill ensures every school in South Carolina has a real, actionable safety plan, backed by coordination, training, and accountability, moving us from reactive responses to a proactive, statewide system designed to better protect students and educators.
The Educator Safety and Classroom Authority Act advanced out of the House Education and Public Works Committee and is now headed to the House floor. This legislation restores clear authority for teachers to manage behavior and maintain discipline in the classroom, something educators across our state have been asking for.
We also worked on legislation focused on preparing the next generation for success. The House debated the Workforce Readiness Act, which focuses on preparing students for real-world success. By better aligning education with workforce needs, this legislation helps ensure students graduate ready for high-demand careers or continued education.
A reminder about the Scenic Cruise Fundraiser next Friday, May 1st out of Crazy Sister Marina to benefit my reelection campaign.
The cruise is from 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm and light refreshments will be served. Donation levels are Gold - $1,000, Silver - $500, and Bronze - $250. Donate online at this link. Checks to “Hewitt for House” can be given at the fundraiser -- RSVP to [email protected] or (843) 902-4238. Your support would be greatly appreciated.
Have a good week. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance.
Rep. Lee Hewitt