From tort reform to budget negotiations and agency consolidation, this week has been an active one at the South Carolina State House. Here’s what you need to know:
Tort Reform Bill Advances
Senate Bill S.244, led by Senator Shane Massey, took a significant step forward on Thursday, receiving a favorable report from a Senate Judiciary subcommittee. This legislation seeks to reform South Carolina's civil liability system by requiring juries or courts to determine the fault percentages of all involved parties—including nonparties. The bill also addresses liquor liability laws, aiming to reduce insurance premiums for establishments serving alcohol by implementing responsible server training programs and mandating liability insurance coverage. S.244 now heads to the full Senate Judiciary Committee for further consideration.
House Ways and Means Committee Approves Budget with Notable DEI Provisions
The House Ways and Means Committee passed its version of the 2025-26 state budget (H.4025) this week, including a proviso restricting the use of state funds for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) programs across state agencies, quasi-state agencies, higher education institutions, school districts, and political subdivisions.
Under this provision, state funds cannot be used to:
Establish and support DEI offices
Require DEI statements for hiring or admissions
Give employment preferences based on race, sex, or other protected categories
Mandate DEI training as a condition of employment or enrollment
The next step for H.4025 is to be considered by the full House for debate and a vote.
Notably, the budget also includes a provision to reduce South Carolina's personal income tax rate from 6.2% to 6%. This reduction is expected to provide around $193.5 million in tax relief to taxpayers.
Advancement of the Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities Consolidation Proposal
A push for government efficiency is moving forward with Senate Bill S.2, which would merge three key state agencies:
Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (DDSN)
Department of Mental Health (DMH)
Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services (DAODAS)
On Thursday, S.2 passed the full Senate Medical Affairs Committee, positioning it for debate on the Senate floor. The bill seeks to streamline services, improve coordination, and eliminate administrative redundancies by creating the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities to oversee these combined functions.
Final Thoughts
With these legislative moves, South Carolina is navigating significant policy shifts that will impact businesses, institutions, and communities.
At Alpha Strategies, we help our clients stay ahead of these changes, ensuring they understand and engage with the evolving policy landscape. Whether it's regulatory strategy, public affairs, or reputation management, staying informed is key to making an impact.
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