Last week marked the first week of the 2023-2024 Legislative Session. Except for a few votes last year (in special session), this is my first legislative session, and I am excited to get started and to work on behalf of the residents of Dorchester and Colleton counties.

On Tuesday, January 11, Speaker Murrell Smith gaveled the session in as over 700 bills made their way across his desk. These bills were assigned to their respective committees where my colleagues and I will begin refining them in committee until they are ready to be placed on the House floor for debate.

I was honored to be appointed to the Judiciary Committee where a majority of the legislation that comes before the House starts and is an important place to ensure we’re passing laws that protect our citizens.

On the topic of committee appointments, I want to point out how important it is for Dorchester County and the entire Lowcountry that fellow Dorchester County resident, Representative Chris Murphy, was appointed to the State Infrastructure Bank Board. This is an important position that should have our county and region at the table for major highway funding decisions coming forward. As a former DOT Commissioner, I know how important this board is to funding our large transportation projects.

On Wednesday, I joined the entire General Assembly as we led the procession down the State House steps to witness Governor Henry McMaster, Lt. Governor Pamela Evette, and our Constitutional Officers being sworn in for the next four years. Gov. McMaster’s Inaugural address commended the General Assembly for passing the largest income tax cut in state history last year, appropriating over a billion and half dollars for new water, sewer, stormwater and infrastructure needs around the state, and ensuring we saved our budget surplus so that we now have the largest rainy day reserve fund balance in state history.

Gov. McMaster outlined a bold vision that focuses on education, properly funding law enforcement, and making sure the process of electing judges is transparent and accountable. I look forward to working hand in hand with the Governor and our Constitutional Officers in making South Carolina a better and safer place to live and to raise a family.

I’m joining my House colleagues as we work on the issues that are most important. To me, the top issues include:

  • Improve Statewide Economic Development to Ensure Prosperity
  • Reform our Education System so Students are Better Prepared for the Workforce
  • Limit Government by Implementing Fiscal Discipline and Responsibility
  • Increase Personal Freedom and Encourage Conservative Values
  • Prioritize Public Safety and make Law and Order a Top Priority

As always, please reach out if you have any questions and concerns.