Charlie Hartz: Week 11 Legislative Update

March 30, 2026 1:02 PM | Michael Schwerdtfeger (Administrator)

Dear Constituents,

It was another busy and productive week in Columbia, focused on delivering real results—lowering costs, strengthening public safety, and supporting South Carolina families.

Here’s a look at what I worked on last week for District 81:

Affordability & Tax Relief

  Last week, the South Carolina Boat Tax Act (H.3858)—a major step for boat owners across South Carolina—is now headed to the Governor’s desk. This legislation cuts boat property taxes nearly in half, eliminates double taxation on motors, and simplifies the process into one easy payment.


In a top boating state like ours, this is about fairness — lowering costs, cutting unnecessary red tape, and making it more affordable for families to enjoy our lakes and coast.


  Work also continued in subcommittee on the Pregnancy Care Tax Credit Act (S.32), which takes a new approach to supporting women, children, and families. This bill encourages private donations to pregnancy resource centers, maternity homes, and programs that support victims of human trafficking—without growing government—while expanding access to critical services like prenatal care, housing, and parenting support.


 ️ The House also passed H.4799, to cut red tape and expand access to care for our veterans. By removing unnecessary barriers, this allows veterans’ homes to be built and expanded more quickly—helping ensure those who served can access care without delays.


Protecting Children & Strengthening Schools


  The Stop Harm from Addictive Social Media (SHASM) Act (H.4591) advanced out of committee this week. The bill targets addictive features like autoplay videos and late-night notifications, while giving parents more control over their children’s screen time.


♥️ We also passed the Smart Heart Act (H.3831), ensuring schools are better prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies. By requiring accessible AEDs and trained staff, this legislation helps make sure help is there when every second matters.


Trump Highway Resolution Passes Senate


  The Senate has officially passed the Donald J. Trump Highway Resolution.

President Donald J. Trump secured the federal permit that made I-73 shovel-ready after decades of delays—bringing jobs, economic growth, and stronger hurricane evacuation routes to the Grand Strand and Pee Dee. 

Public Safety & Law Enforcement


  The House passed the K9 Officer and Horse Protection Bill (H.3034) to strengthen penalties for those who harm law enforcement animals. These K9s are critical partners in keeping our communities safe.


  Legislation addressing illegal street takeovers (H.4292) also moved forward this week. These reckless events put lives at risk and disrupt communities, and this bill gives law enforcement stronger tools to stop them.


  Work also continues on legislation (H.3408) to prevent foreign adversaries from purchasing or owning farmland in South Carolina—an important step in protecting our food supply, strengthening our economy, and safeguarding our long-term security. Protecting our land is critical to South Carolina’s future.


Had a great visit with the Palmetto Nuclear Coalition to discuss the important role nuclear energy plays in our state’s future.


The $2.5 million Meals on Wheels campaign for Aiken Senior Life Services wrapped up, and the Aiken delegation recognized campaign leader, Bill Reynolds, with a joint resolution from the General Assembly.

Aiken Delegation with Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette.


Aiken County Republican Party
803-215-8819
127 Greenville St. SW. Aiken, SC
Office hours:  Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday - 10-2 or by appointment.

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