COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) – With the most newly elected senators since World War II, Republican Senate leaders in South Carolina are considering taking on subjects like tax reform that have been too difficult for a long time.
On Wednesday, the 13 new senators—nine Republicans and four Democrats—arrived at the Statehouse to meet, give brief welcome speeches, select their seats, and get committee assignments. Forty more days remain before the session begins.
When it does start, Republican Majority Leader Shane Massey wants to discuss a plan that would amend a provision that the state Supreme Court said earlier this year was unconstitutional by allowing parents to use public funds for private education.
In order to guarantee that the quickly expanding state has adequate authority, Massey wants the Senate, which now has a 34–12 Republican supermajority, to consider a comprehensive bill revamping South Carolina’s energy policy.
According to Massey, there are criminal justice concerns such as combating fentanyl and large retail theft, as well as what many senators believe is the escalating issue of insurance premium spikes because state liability rules do not distinguish between different levels of blame.
Republican South Carolina Senate President Thomas Alexander has his robe adjusted by his wife Lynda during the chamber’s organization session on Wednesday, Dec. 4, 2024, in Columbia, S.C. (AP Photo/Jeffrey Collins)
Image courtesy of Jeffrey Collins/Associated Press
However, with so many new members, senators may be able to address issues that have long been opposed, such as overhauling the state’s whole tax, retirement, or civil litigation systems.
Regarding all of the new senators, Massey stated, “I believe there will be some dynamic changes.” They have distinct personalities.
However, problems can wait until January 14th, when the session begins. Housekeeping and introductions took place on Wednesday, and family members watched as their loved ones were sworn in.
One significant regulation adjustment was made. A motion to remove a committee chairman can now be sponsored by the Senate President and Majority Leader and presented to the Rules Committee and the Senate as a whole.
Over the past few years, there have been complaints over the way certain chairpersons—who are chosen based on seniority—manage their committees and the rate at which laws are passed. They receive a message about their behavior from the rule.
Although the rule is in place as a precaution, Massey stated that he does not anticipate it ever being used.
“We simply want to ensure that the committees are carrying out their assigned tasks and that the majority can pass legislation,” Massey stated.
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