Good Morning, South Carolina - December 16, 2024
A daily political recap
Welcome to The Arena's daily political recap! Delivered straight to your inbox Monday through Friday, this series aims to keep you informed about the latest developments in South Carolina politics, all through a progressive lens.
As the state’s only progressive media outlet, we are dedicated to spotlighting stories you may have missed in the daily shuffle. Here’s what you need to know from the weekend:
Lawmakers Work to Close Loophole in Child Abuse Statutes
South Carolina legislators and prosecutors are pushing to amend a legal gap in child abuse statutes. Current laws impose harsher sentences for fatal child abuse only when the victim is under 11 years old. This has forced prosecutors in cases involving older children to rely on more difficult-to-prove murder charges. Advocates hope new legislation, which would raise the age cutoff to 18, will simplify prosecutions and ensure accountability for egregious cases of neglect and abuse. While similar bills stalled last year, recent high-profile cases may provide the momentum needed for reform.
Read more in the Post and Courier.
Questions Rise over SC Department of Education's Proposed Starting Salary
The South Carolina Department of Education is proposing a $50,000 starting salary for teachers, aiming to enhance recruitment and retention efforts amid a state-wide teacher shortage. However, the cost of this proposal, estimated at an additional $200 million annually, could be a major hurdle for lawmakers. With only $533 million in new revenue expected for next year's budget, allocating a significant portion to teacher salaries may limit funding for other state priorities, such as employee pay raises and healthcare costs. While Governor Henry McMaster has set a goal to achieve this salary increase by 2026, the challenge remains in balancing the need for higher pay with the state's overall fiscal health.
Folly Beach Charitable Donations Face Scrutiny Amid Concerns Over Accountability
Folly Beach is facing scrutiny over its practice of allocating taxpayer money to local charities with ties to city officials, particularly Councilman D.J. Rich, who has voted to fund organizations like the Folly Beach Exchange Club and Folly Angels, both of which failed to register as charities with the state. Despite receiving at least $11,000 in public funds, the Exchange Club only recently registered with the state after receiving multiple warnings, while Folly Angels was shut down for non-compliance. Residents have raised concerns about transparency and accountability regarding where the funds go, and some have called for stricter oversight, but city officials have yet to take action. Questions about potential conflicts of interest among local leaders remain unresolved, as several council members have close ties to the groups they support.
Read more in the Post and Courier.
Honoring Former U.S. Congressman John Spratt and State Senator Kay Patterson
John Spratt, who represented South Carolina's 5th District in Congress for nearly three decades, passed away at 82. Known for his bipartisan leadership and economic expertise, Spratt helped craft the 1997 Balanced Budget Act and resolved the Catawba Indian land claim, fostering local development. Tributes poured in from political figures including President Biden and Rep. Jim Clyburn, praising his statesmanship, intellect, and commitment to service.
Civil rights champion and longtime state legislator Kay Patterson has passed away at 93. Over his 34 years in office, Patterson fought tirelessly for justice, equality, and better education. Known for his wit and passion, Patterson was a mentor to many and a fearless advocate for removing the Confederate flag from Statehouse grounds. He leaves a legacy of courage, humor, and commitment to South Carolina’s progress.
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