When we gaveled back in for the second year of the two-year legislative session, we didn’t ease into it. We jumped straight into committee work and serious debate on major legislation. Before I knew it, several weeks had passed without me sitting down to write to you.

It is an honor to represent District 8, and I want to be sure you know exactly what we have been working on in Columbia and how it impacts you, your family, and your business. 

Property Tax Relief for Seniors 
S.768 on Property Tax Relief for Seniors is one of the most significant bills we have passed this year, expanding South Carolina’s Homestead Exemption for seniors. This legislation increases the exemption from $50,000 to $150,000 of a primary residence’s fair market value.

Seniors 65 and older who have lived in South Carolina for at least five years may claim up to $75,000, and after ten years, qualify for the full $150,000 exemption. This is projected to cut taxes by more than $250 million for South Carolina homeowners.

Major Income Tax Reform
Last week, the Senate advanced a major income tax reform package (H.4216), improving the House version to save taxpayers an additional $290 million dollars. Between property and income tax relief, the Senate voted for more than half a billion dollars in tax cuts in just a matter of days.

As Chairman of the Income Tax Subcommittee, I was proud to help lead this effort. Our goal is simple: to make South Carolina more competitive, reward hard work, and move steadily toward a tax structure to support growth and opportunity.

Standing Strong for Public Safety
The Senate passed a comprehensive DUI reform bill (S.52) to strengthen penalties and close dangerous loopholes. For too long, repeat offenders have been able to plead down serious charges and avoid meaningful consequences. This bill strengthens enforcement and ensures drunk drivers who cause devastating harm can be held accountable.

Boat Registration and Tax Bill
South Carolina has the highest boat tax in the country, despite being the home to several major boat manufacturers.  H 3858 streamlines the boat and motor titling process and also reduces the boat tax over a 3-year period. The Senate amended the bill to cut out the motor registration fee so it will go back to the House this week where it is expected that they will concur and send it to the Governor for signing in to law.

Protecting Veterans and First Responders
We passed the Safeguarding American Veterans’ Benefits Act (S.695), protecting veterans from bad actors who charge unlawful or excessive fees to help secure the benefits they’ve already earned. Additionally, the Senate passed legislation (S.868) establishing “Gold Shield Day” on June 1st to honor first responders who have fallen in the line of duty.

Accountability in Education
The Senate passed comprehensive Charter School Accountability reforms (S.454), increasing transparency and strengthening oversight of charter boards. We also advanced school board ethics reforms and transparency requirements for collegiate athletic revenue-sharing programs. Parents deserve accountability and transparency in our system.

Finance & Insurance Reform
Several important finance-related measures passed the Senate this month:

S.857 – Contingent Deferred Annuities (legislation I sponsored): aligning South Carolina law with national standards while protecting consumers
S.697 – 211 Network: ensuring this critical service qualifies for federal support and continues connecting South Carolinians with essential resources
S.619 – Insurer Liquidation: strengthening protections within our insurance regulatory framework

These bills may not always generate headlines, but they strengthen the financial stability of our state.

Looking Ahead
We still have work ahead of us. The House must consider several of these measures, and we will continue deliberations on the state budget and additional reforms.

If you have questions, concerns, or ideas, I encourage you to call my Columbia office at (803) 212-6148. My assistant, Ja’vell Bynoe, will be happy to help you.

As always, thank you for the opportunity to serve.