Blog

We had an eventful week in the Senate. Here are a few things you may have missed:

A bill that will enforce tougher DUI laws was passed this week. The bill will require drivers convicted of a first-time offense DUI with a blood alcohol level of .12 or above to install ignition interlocks on their cars. DUI offenders on their 2nd and 3rd offenses are already required to install the device as a condition of driving again, following the suspension of their licenses. The bill will eliminate the suspension period for 2nd and 3rd offenders and require them to install the device immediately. The program would be optional for other DUI offenders facing a first offense.

The budget subcommittees started work this week, hearing from agencies as we begin crafting a budget.

The Finance Committee discussed a bill that will increase the incentives for motion pictures made in South Carolina. Our hope is that the increased incentives would help the film industry grow and prosper in South Carolina.

The committee also discussed a bill that will require the lowering of flags atop the State Capitol Building when a military serviceman is killed in the line of duty. The bill will ensure that the state honors our servicemen and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice in a dignified manner.

Next week should be a much busier week for us and we are looking forward to making continued progress for the state.