It’s hard to believe we’re already halfway through the 2025 legislative session—but we’re not slowing down. This week, I joined my House Republican Caucus members in announcing a historic tax reform plan that will cut taxes, simplify the system, and make South Carolina the most competitive state in the nation when it comes to personal income tax.
And that wasn’t all—several other important bills advanced this week, including legislation to crack down on fentanyl dealers, and to protect benefits for our firefighters.
A Bold, Historic Tax Reform Plan for South Carolina
This week, I was proud to join my colleagues in supporting H.4216, a newly introduced tax reform bill that would deliver the most significant income tax cut in South Carolina history.
Right now, South Carolina has the highest personal income tax rate in the Southeast—but this bill will change that. Here’s how:
• Lowers the top income tax rate from 6.2 percent to a simple, flat 3.99 percent
• Makes South Carolina more competitive than North Carolina (4.25 percent) and Georgia (5.39 percent)
• Includes a path to further reduce the rate to 2.49 percent as economic benchmarks are met—giving South Carolina the lowest rate in the nation
• Keeps key exemptions in place (no taxes on groceries or medicine)
• Does not raise sales or property taxes to make up the difference
• Moves us off the federal tax base so Washington no longer controls our tax code
This plan is about returning more of your hard-earned money to your family, strengthening our economy, and putting South Carolina—not Washington—in charge of our future.
Holding Fentanyl Dealers Accountable
The fentanyl crisis is ravaging communities across our state. This week, the House Judiciary Committee gave a favorable report to S.156, the Drug-Induced Homicide Bill. This legislation would make it a felony—punishable by up to 30 years in prison—for anyone who unlawfully provides fentanyl that results in an overdose death. It also ensures that a victim’s personal drug use does not shield a dealer from prosecution. I will proudly vote for this bill when it reaches the House floor in the coming weeks.
Supporting Firefighters Who Put Their Lives on the Line
The House Labor, Commerce, and Industry Committee took a key step forward this week by advancing H.3163, a bill that expands workers’ compensation coverage for firefighters.
It ensures that if a firefighter suffers a stroke while actively fighting a fire, responding to a rescue, or participating in strenuous training, that condition is presumed to be job-related. It’s a simple way to honor and support those who serve our communities so bravely.
Staying Informed:
As the session progresses, I will continue to share updates like this one to keep you informed about the work being done in Columbia. These weekly columns are designed to provide insight into legislative priorities, progress, and key developments. If you ever have questions, concerns, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out. It’s an honor and privilege to serve you and your family in Columbia. Hearing from you often helps me better serve our community and state.
Also, hopefully you received April’s COMMUNITY UPDATE email this week. If not, please contact me at NathanBallentine@schouse.gov and ask me to add you to the distribution list. I have sent these monthly updates out for several years to keep you informed of not only what’s going on at the State House but also what’s happening around our community.
