By Nathan Ballentine I am proud to be working with like-minded colleagues in the State House to fight for conservative reforms that put South Carolinians first. We are taking bold action to rein in wasteful spending, secure South Carolina’s energy future and eliminate conflicts of interest in auditing. This week,Continue Reading
We’re two weeks into our legislative session and the excitement is building. House committees are currently engaged in taking public testimony and preparing for the upcoming floor debates on many issues you’ve let me know are important to you. In total, there were more than 31 committee and subcommittee meetings,Continue Reading
At the request of South Carolina, the deadline to apply for FEMA assistance for those impacted by Hurricane Helene has been extended to January 28, 2025. Homeowners and renters affected by the storm are strongly encouraged to apply before the deadline. FEMA assistance includes: Temporary housing support (rental assistance orContinue Reading
By Al Dozier Local lawmakers say the increasing impact of rising insurance rates on restaurants and nightclubs is creating a crisis in the business community. It’s often called “liquor liability.” But Rep. Micah Caskey, R-Lexington, said it’s not going to be easy to fix the problem.“It’s complicated,” said Caskey, aContinue Reading
The Central Midlands Council of Governments, Central Midlands Transit (COMET), and the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) are teaming up on a new project called LINKS to Lake Murray. This project focuses on studying two key corridors around Lake Murray: SC 6 (North Lake Drive) – From Dreher ShoalsContinue Reading
The Chapin Town Council is considering introducing an impact fee for new water customers to address the growing demands on the town’s water systems. Both residential and commercial developments that connect to Chapin’s water or wastewater systems would be subject to the proposed fee. According to the ordinance, the feesContinue Reading
Washington, DC – Congressman Joe Wilson issued the following statement on the recent terrorist activity in the United States: “The FBI defines ‘domestic terrorism’ as “Violent, criminal acts committed by individuals and/or groups to further ideological goals stemming from domestic influences, such as those of a political, religious, social, racial, or environmental nature.’”Continue Reading
The Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program is offering free online training to those interested in becoming a volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL) in Lexington County. Volunteers advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children who are involved in Family Court legal proceedings through the Department of Social ServicesContinue Reading
The Columbia City Council approved changes to the city’s parking rate ordinance during its December 4 meeting, following months of discussions with citizens, hospitality districts, and other stakeholders. The updated rates aim to reinvest revenue into Columbia’s parking system, focusing on infrastructure improvements, maintenance, and enhanced customer experience. City leadersContinue Reading
Washington, D.C. – Congressman Joe Wilson, Senior Member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement after the House voted on passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. The bill now awaits approval by the Senate, then will be sent to the President forContinue Reading
Richland County voters have opted to extend the county’s 1 percent special sales and use tax, also known as the “Transportation Penny,” which will continue to fund essential transportation infrastructure improvements. Originally imposed in 2012, this tax is on track to reach its revenue cap of $1.07 billion by lateContinue Reading
The Republican Party had a strong showing in South Carolina’s recent election, particularly in the state Senate, where they flipped four seats and came close to securing a supermajority. Despite some races heading to automatic recounts due to tight margins, Republicans are optimistic about their gains. Senate Majority Leader ShaneContinue Reading
The Columbia Airport Expressway now bears the name of Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02), honoring his long-standing commitment to South Carolina. Officials and community members gathered at Columbia Metropolitan Airport for the dedication ceremony, where South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson, Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell, U.S. Congressman Ralph Norman, andContinue Reading
By Al Dozier Lexington County residents could soon see much better trash pickup service, but it will come at a cost. At the Oct. 8 meeting Lexington County Council agreed to consider creating a special tax district in the unincorporated areas of the county that would provide trash collection servicesContinue Reading
Governor Henry McMaster, along with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD), has announced that Richland County is now eligible for expedited federal individual disaster assistance in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. The Richland County Emergency Management Division (RCEMD) has started assessing hurricane-related damage across the county to determine itsContinue Reading
Residents of 13 South Carolina counties affected by Hurricane Helene may be eligible for FEMA disaster assistance if they experienced uninsured damage or losses. This assistance can help with urgent needs such as temporary lodging, home repairs, personal property loss, and other disaster-related expenses. The eligible counties include Aiken, Anderson,Continue Reading