2021 Statehouse Report # 10

On Wednesday, the House passed the first major Second Amendment legislation in over 25 years! This bill puts SC in line with 45 other states’ firearm legislation. This advancement does not yet accomplish the goal of making South Carolina a state with full Constitutional Carry. However, passing this bill is a huge step in the right direction and I look forward to advancing this issue even further in the coming weeks with H. 3096.

Constitutional Carry Passes Subcommittee

On Tuesday, the House Judiciary Constitutional Laws Subcommittee took up H. 3096, a bill that proposes the Constitutional Carry of firearms in South Carolina. This authorizes the open carry of a firearm with no permit requirement or training courses necessary. I plan to support this bill when it comes to the House floor.

Protecting SC Businesses - COVID-19 Liability Act

This week, members of a House Judiciary subcommittee voted in favor of and passed S. 147 (with amendment) that has already been passed out of the Senate. This legislation protects businesses operating in accordance with health guidelines from liability associated with COVID-19. This legislation is very important to the business community and helps us get South Carolina back to work!

Hate Crime Legislation In South Carolina 

H. 3620 moved through the Full House Judiciary Committee this week and strengthens the penalties for those who commit certain violent crimes. S.C. is one of only three states that hasn’t addressed this issue. Once on the House floor, I plan to vote in opposition to this legislation.

Did you know?

This week, the Governor proclaimed Wednesday to be STEM Education Day. Strong STEM education will help develop a more competitive and skilled workforce of tomorrow. This effort was spearheaded by Republican Caucus member and STEM advocate Rep. Sylleste Davis.