Legislators Share Plans with S. C. Businesses

In Columbia, business leaders from across South Carolina gathered to hear from state legislators about their plans for the upcoming session. The South Carolina Chamber of Commerce hosted this event, giving lawmakers a chance to share their goals and vision for the state. House Minority Leader Todd Rutherford (D) suggested using money from sports betting to fund vouchers, rather than taking funds from the lottery. Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey (R) emphasized the need for more electricity in the state, driven by both growth and federal requirements. Associate Senate Minority Leader Ronnie Sabb (D) addressed the importance of hate crime laws, stressing that they should not be overlooked. House Speaker Murrell Smith (R) highlighted the need for tax reform, noting that South Carolina has the highest personal income tax rate in the southeast. Though they had differing views, all legislators expressed a desire to work together for the state's progress.