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 South Carolina Jobs First
Finally, the Buy American Iron & Steel Act (H.4709) passed the House unanimously last week. This important legislation ensures taxpayer dollars prioritize American-made iron and steel in state-funded projects, strengthening domestic manufacturing and supporting South Carolina jobs. The House is putting America First — right here in South Carolina!
I also supported advancing the Workforce Readiness bill (H.3197) to better prepare South Carolina students for success after graduation. This legislation strengthens career training, expands pathways to industry credentials, and aligns education with workforce needs. These reforms help students build real skills and help South Carolina build a stronger workforce.
 Fighting for Our Students
Last week, I voted to pass the Historic Displays & Chaplains in Schools Act (H.4762). This legislation ensures schools display foundational historical documents — including the Ten Commandments, as part of an educational presentation highlighting the documents that shaped American law and government. It also allows schools to establish volunteer chaplain programs to provide additional support for students.
I believe students should learn the full story of American history and understand the values that built our country. This legislation strengthens civic education and supports students across South Carolina.
The Truth in Public School Grading bill (H.5073) advanced out of the Education & Public Works Committee. Parents deserve transparency and honesty when it comes to their child’s academic progress. This legislation ensures grading policies reflect real achievement and provide families with clear, accurate information, because high standards and honest feedback are essential to preparing students for success in college, careers, and life.
 Supporting Our First Responders & Public Safety
Last week, the HALO Act (H.4763), a bill I proudly co-sponsored, advanced out of the full Judiciary Committee, sending a clear message that South Carolina backs the brave men and women who serve on the front lines. By establishing a 25-foot safety radius, this bill ensures law enforcement officers and first responders have the space they need to act quickly, decisively, and safely in high-pressure moments. It also strengthens penalties for those who harass, obstruct, or assault them while they are simply trying to do their job. When lives are on the line, interference isn’t just disruptive, it’s dangerous.
I also supported advancing a comprehensive Juvenile Crime Reform Package (H.4151, H.5120, H.5121) to crack down on serious youth violence and restore order in our communities. These bills ensure violent juvenile offenders face real consequences, strengthen coordination between schools and law enforcement when major crimes occur, and invest in prevention efforts that reinforce discipline and accountability. This is a firm but fair approach, public safety comes first, and serious crimes will carry serious consequences, no matter the offender’s age.
In addition, the Immigration Enforcement bill (H.4764) passed out of Judiciary Subcommittee – another bill I’m co-sponsoring. This legislation strengthens cooperation between state and local law enforcement and federal authorities to ensure individuals who are in our country unlawfully and commit crimes are properly identified and processed. A growing number of law enforcement agencies across our state are already implementing these partnerships and taking proactive steps to uphold the rule of law — and that’s exactly why we are working to pass this legislation statewide: to support their efforts and ensure every community has the tools it needs to keep families safe. Protecting our communities remains a core responsibility, and public safety will always come first.
Learn more about the growing number of Counties in South Carolina who are already implementing this program and working to keep their communities safe here.
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