Wednesday brought the passage of H.4289, a bill that aligns with our commitment to ensuring fairness and academic freedom within our educational institutions. By addressing the influence of DEI ideology in college admissions and employment decisions, this legislation champions the principles of merit and free speech.

Ensuring Merit-Based Decisions: The bill prohibits the use of diversity pledges in college admissions and employment, emphasizing qualifications and achievements.

Upholding Free Speech: By protecting free speech and ensuring all viewpoints are treated equally, we foster a more inclusive and open academic environment.

I was proud to support this bill as it underscores our dedication to maintaining academic standards that respect the diversity of thought and protect the rights of all individuals within our educational system.

On Thursday, the House passed the "Fair Access to Insurance Requirements Fund" (H.5066), to make liquor liability insurance more affordable for businesses in South Carolina. This move addresses the closure of many small businesses due to high insurance costs. The bill encourages businesses to lower their premiums by implementing staff training on responsible alcohol service and other preventive measures, thus reducing the risk and cost of insurance. 

Next week, the House will be on furlough. This pause allows us to prepare for the crucial period ahead as we approach the April 10 "crossover" deadline. This deadline is pivotal for ensuring that our legislative efforts can advance to the State Senate for consideration. As we look forward to resuming our work, I am committed to addressing a variety of key issues that impact the lives of South Carolinians. 

A lot happened in our District and Mount Pleasant this week. We started off first thing Monday morning with a tribute to National Medal of Honor Day aboard the U.S.S. Laffey. This incredible vessel, known as "The Ship That Would Not Die," was constructed and commissioned during WWII, and served both during the D-Day Invasion as well as the Battle of Okinawa. We were tremendously honored to have Medal of Honor Recipient Michael Thornton on board Monday morning to share thoughts about the importance of this annual celebration and recognition of our bravest heroes in the battles to protect the freedoms we hold so dear. Despite the chilly, brisk winds on board the ship, we were all happy to witness the wreath-laying that occurred to commemorate this special day.

On Monday evening, the Charleston Delegation including members of the SC State House and Senate met at North Charleston City Hall to listen to presentations of several organizations with specific funding requests, other groups with concerns they wanted to share with us, and appoint new members to various boards throughout Charleston County. 

Thursday in the House Chambers, Rep. Joe Bustos had arranged for a resolution to honor a resident of Brickyard Plantation here in District 80, Rose Dillon, who is a Junior at the Academic Magnet. Many of you will recognize Rose as the young lady with the voice of an angel who sings "The Star Spangled Banner" for us regularly at Republican events and meetings. She has also been featured at Mount Pleasant's wonderful Sweetgrass Festival and other venues. In addition to her many other accomplishments, Rose is a member of the Mount Pleasant Junior Town Council. Rose sat between Joe and me and was able to witness first-hand all the procedures and debate involved in passing bills through the House. We truly appreciate her parents, Max and Elizabeth Dillon bringing their fabulous daughter here to join us and to be honored in the State House.

As of today, I have learned that at least one Democrat has filed to run against me for the General Election in November. I would truly like to continue to serve as your Representative for the next two years because there is much work still to be done. The last day to file is this coming Monday, and the deadline for this quarter's financial filing is tomorrow, Easter Sunday, March 31st. If you would like to help me in my effort to remain in this role for another two years, please consider a donation of any size from $10 up to $1000 per person. It would be wonderful to have as many names as possible on this financial filing, regardless of the amount, to show support for my candidacy for re-election. Thank you so much for all your help and interest in the past! Please click here to donate.

Your input and engagement remain invaluable to me, and I encourage you to reach out with any questions, concerns, or insights you may have.

Have a very Happy Easter and a wonderful week ahead!