South Carolina legislators tackled major policy discussions this week, shaping the future of education, healthcare, and governance. Here’s what you need to know:
K-12 Private School Voucher/Scholarship Bill (S.62)
The House has approved a bill allowing parents to use public funds for private school tuition, allocating $30 million for education scholarships. These scholarships would offer up to $6,000 per student annually for families earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level.
Senate Version: Proposes funding scholarships through state lottery revenue.
House Version: Suggests funding the scholarships through the state's general budget, with oversight by a trustee appointed by the State Superintendent to manage the trust fund.
Next Steps: The bill now returns to the Senate for further consideration of the House's amendments.
Restructuring Behavioral Health Services (S.2)
A major reform bill aims to create the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, consolidating the Department of Mental Health, the Department of Disabilities and Special Needs, and the Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services into one agency.
Supporters argue this will streamline services, improve coordination, and enhance care for individuals with behavioral health and developmental challenges.
Next Steps: The bill has passed the Senate and now moves to the House for consideration.
Launch of the Future Caucus
In a bipartisan move, State Sen. Deon Tedder (D-Charleston) and House Rep. Brandon Newton (R-Lancaster) announced the creation of the Future Caucus—a group uniting millennial and Gen Z lawmakers to drive forward-thinking, cross-party collaboration.
South Carolina now joins 34 other states in empowering younger legislators to address issues shaping the future.
Looking Ahead: Key Hearings Next Week
H. 3457: Human Life Protection Act
Proposes a near-total abortion ban, with exceptions for medical emergencies.
Hearing: Tuesday, March 4, at 9 a.m. in Room 110 of the Blatt Building.
H. 3927: Ending Illegal Discrimination and Restoring Merit-Based Opportunity Act
Seeks to eliminate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs in state agencies, public schools, and colleges, impacting hiring practices and institutional policies.
Hearing: Tuesday, March 4, at 1.5 hour after House adjournment in Room 110 of the Blatt Building.
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