State Legislative Update

The 128th General Assembly Begins

The South Carolina General Assembly returns to session on January 14, 2025, marking the first regular session of the 128th General Assembly. This session will run through May 8, 2025, with a critical crossover deadline on April 10, the last day for bills to pass from one chamber to the other.

With Republicans holding a supermajority in both the House and Senate, leadership battles have emerged over the control of subcommittee chairs. Jordan Pace, Chairman of the SC Freedom Caucus, recently declared, “Only Republicans should chair subcommittees,” signaling a potential shift in how legislative priorities will be managed.

 

Rep Rosalyn Henderson Myers was appointed to the Judiciary Committee and Regulations, Administrative Procedures, AI, and Cybersecurity. 

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Key GOP Legislative Priorities for 2025

As the session begins, Republicans are poised to advance their priorities, which could have sweeping impacts across the state:

• Private School Vouchers: Following the South Carolina Supreme Court's decision to strike down private school voucher programs, Republican lawmakers plan to revive this effort, pushing for expanded school choice measures.

• Abortion Rights: Expect stricter abortion bans, including proposals to further limit access to abortion medications and to restrict cross-state travel for abortion services.

• Income Tax Cuts: Legislative leaders aim to lower the state income tax rate to 4.5% and expedite cuts in an effort to remain competitive with neighboring states.

• DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) Opposition: Anticipate increased resistance to DEI initiatives. Proposed bills may target hiring and promotion practices at state universities and other public institutions.
   

Resources

• Explore Pre-Filed Bills
  Review legislation already filed in both the House and Senate here: Pre-Filed Bills

• Find Your Legislator
  Locate and contact your state representatives: Legislator Search

• Download the SC State House App https://apps.apple.com/us/app/sc-legislature/id1294829381 (consider including graphic of ap thumbnail)

 

The Spartanburg County Democratic Party remains committed to holding our state leaders accountable. We encourage all members to stay informed and engaged throughout this legislative session.