Dear friends and neighbors, 

2024 Week 9 – Strengthening Rights, Education, and Fiscal Responsibility

This week at the State House, my focus remained steadfast on legislative initiatives crucial to protecting our freedoms, enhancing educational opportunities, and honoring the distinguished service of our veterans. This week worked to reinforce Second Amendment rights, advocated for educational choice, and recognized our veterans’ dedication and sacrifice.

Constitutional Carry: A Victory for Second Amendment Rights

I’m proud to announce that the Senate has passed H.3594, the Constitutional Carry/Second Amendment Preservation Act, which I strongly supported. This landmark legislation, now signed into law by the Governor, affirms our unwavering commitment to the Second Amendment by allowing law-abiding citizens the freedom to carry firearms openly or concealed. This act not only honors our constitutional rights but also ensures stringent penalties for those who violate the law to enhance public safety across our state.

Revolutionizing Education: Enhancements to the ESTF Program

Our resolve to empower parents with greater control over their children’s education took a significant step forward with the introduction of revisions to the Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF) Program (H.5164). These updates streamline the application process, ensuring a more efficient use of educational funds, while expanding program accessibility. By expanding this program, we’re making strides toward a future where every parent has the freedom to choose the best educational path for their children, further enriching our state’s diverse educational ecosystem. This bill passed favorably out of committee, and I expect it to be on the House floor in the coming weeks.

Honoring Our Veterans: Recognizing Military Training in Education

The passage of H.5105 marks another milestone in our commitment to supporting our veterans. This legislation guarantees that our technical colleges recognize and award college credit for military training and experiences. This not only respects the valuable skills acquired through military service but also aids veterans in their transition to civilian careers, strengthening South Carolina’s workforce.

John W. Kittredge Elected as South Carolina’s New Supreme Court Chief Justice

Yesterday marked a significant moment for South Carolina’s judiciary as we elected John W. Kittredge as the new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. A native of Greenville, his extensive judicial experience and commitment to fairness and the Constitution promise to guide our highest court with wisdom and integrity. I look forward to the positive impact his leadership will have on our justice system.

A Preview of Next Week’s Budget Debate: Commitment to Fiscal Responsibility and Community Support

Next week promises to be pivotal as we’re set to debate the state’s budget (H.5100). This comprehensive budget not only reflects our state’s economic success but also reaffirms our dedication to prudent fiscal stewardship. This budget thoughtfully addresses essential areas such as education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development, ensuring that our growing needs are met while maintaining our commitment to efficiency and fiscal responsibility.

Key highlights of the proposed budget include: 

• Targeted investments in rural communities, which are vital to our state’s economic fabric.

• Recognizing the invaluable role of our first responders, we are prioritizing mental health support with a significant allocation for PTSD treatment, underscoring our commitment to their well-being.

• Infrastructure remains a top priority, with strategic funding earmarked for critical improvements, ensuring the longevity and safety of our state’s roads and bridges.

• Enhancements to the SC Legislative Tax Credit for first responders.

As we prepare for the upcoming debate, I am confident that this budget will serve as a testament to our fiscal responsibility and our relentless pursuit of creating a safer, more prosperous South Carolina for all.

Your engagement is vital as we move forward with these initiatives. Together, we’re ensuring that South Carolina remains a beacon of freedom, opportunity, and prosperity.

Sincerely, 

Bill Hixon 
South Carolina House of Representatives
District 83
(803) 734-3022