January 20, 2006
Federal News
$43 MILLION THUMBS UP for Sens. Graham and DeMint and Congressman Brown for their efforts in procuring funds for a new terminal at the Myrtle Beach International Airport. In an announcement yesterday, Horry County Council Chairwoman Liz Gilland broke the news that the FAA has recommended a Letter of Intent for the funding of $43 million for the new terminal project. Although this is only a recommendation and the money has not been approved by Congress, we are confident we’ll hear good news in the next 30-45 days.
State News
Late School Start Bill Gets an Early Start in the House
The uniform late school start bill (H. 4429) will be heard by the subcommittee next Tuesday and will go to the full committee (Committee on Education and Public Works) on Wednesday. The incredible backing of this bill, now with 83 sponsors, has put the bill on the fast track to becoming law. After the subcommittee and committee review the bill, it will go before the House and depending on any proposed changes, should reach the Senate by the first week of February.
This is great news for businesses along the Grand Strand. If this bill passes, it has the potential to boost tourism and tourism-related businesses, improve the economy and, of course, allow parents to spend more precious one-on-one time with their children.
Gov. Sanford’s State of the State Address
Gov. Mark Sanford gave his State of the State address on Wednesday evening, outlining his priorities for the upcoming year. In his address, Gov. Sanford discussed tax reform, education, college tuition caps, restrictions on state spending and the need for more black judges in South Carolina courts. Unfortunately, the governor did not discuss tourism but we are hopeful Gov. Sanford still has South Carolina’s No. 1 industry in mind.
Workers Compensation Reform
Two bills regarding workers compensation reform recently were filed, one in the Senate (S. 1035) and one in the House
(H. 4427). Although we anticipate the process of reforming workers compensation to be somewhat long and arduous, the proposed bills are a show of good faith from the legislature that they are listening to the business community’s concerns and that’s a good sign for businesses in South Carolina.
Smoking Ban Bill in Subcommittee
Bill H. 3795, proposing a ban on smoking in restaurants, will be heard by the Judiciary subcommittee for the first time next week. Luckily, the subcommittee has many pro-business members and we anticipate they will listen carefully to the debate made by businesses concerned about this bill.
Grand Strand Legislative Reception
Feb. 1, 6-9 p.m.
Clarion Town House Hotel
1615 Gervais St., Columbia
More Information
Did you know?
You can sign up for “E-Alerts,” which give information on legislative initiatives and other news, from Gov. Sanford’s office?
