This week has underscored my commitment to fostering economic growth, ensuring justice, and enhancing education. I’ve proposed changes years ago to the way we elect our judges, we are now moving closer to real reforms. Each step taken has been a move towards positive change.
A Responsive Approach to Unemployment Benefits
On Wednesday, the House passed a bill that would adjust unemployment benefits based on our economic climate (H.4710). This law will be a win for small businesses and job seekers alike. By modifying the duration of unemployment benefits to reflect current job market realities, we’re not just supporting our already vibrant job market; we’re actively promoting re-engagement with the 161,000 job opportunities currently available across our state. Moreover, this reform will lead to savings for small businesses on their unemployment taxes, enabling them to reinvest those funds into growth, innovation, and further job creation—a move that benefits not just the individual businesses but our economy at large.
Supporting Our Veterans
A significant milestone was achieved on Thursday with the passage of H.3116, the Veterans’ Property Tax Exemption bill. This legislation, now heading to the governor, extends property tax exemptions to permanently and totally disabled veterans and, thoughtfully amended by the Senate, to their surviving spouses. It’s a clear demonstration of our dedication to honoring and supporting our veterans and their families.
A Focus on Our Judiciary System
The urgent need to fill judicial vacancies was a key focus this week, highlighted in a passionate address by House Speaker Murrell Smith. The potential for 24 circuit court judge positions to remain vacant poses a serious threat to our justice system’s effectiveness. I share his concerns about the delays this could cause in our courts, impacting public safety and the timely delivery of justice. I’m committed to collaborating with my colleagues in the Senate to address these vacancies promptly, ensuring our judicial system operates seamlessly. I’m hopeful we can get resolution soon to not only fill these vacancies but also have real reform in the way our judges are elected.
Looking Ahead: Empowering Student Athletes
I’m eager to turn my attention to H.4957 next week, aiming to empower college athletes with the ability to earn from their name, image, and likeness (NIL). With strong backing from coaches across South Carolina’s top universities, this bill promotes equitable opportunities for our student athletes, aligning our state with national collegiate sports standards.