Legislative Session Weekly Update, February 25-27
Last week, the debate over private school vouchers took center stage, as the South Carolina House of Representatives passed its version of Senate Bill 42, which would allow parents to use public funds for private school tuition. The bill now returns to the Senate, where lawmakers must reconcile a key difference: the Senate version funds the program using lottery proceeds, while the House version pulls from the regular budget. While supporters claim it expands school choice, critics argue it primarily benefits wealthier families while failing to protect marginalized students. If passed, the bill could face legal challenges, as a similar law was struck down by the state Supreme Court in 2023. WREN believes in fully funding our public education system and we oppose any legislation that restricts people’s ability to earn a living, secure a job, and build a better future.
The Week in Review (February 25 – February 27)
The WREN Nest has been hard at work mobilizing ahead of the hearing on House Bill 3457, a dangerous total abortion ban. Thanks to your efforts, over 700 advocates have made more than 2,000 connections with their legislators, and that is just what we can track through our action link! Your continued support is critical to stopping this bill and sending a clear message: abortion must remain accessible, affordable, and available in South Carolina. Our CEO, Dr. Amalia Luxardo, also wrote a piece for the Post & Courier on the devastating effects this bill would have on our state. You can read the full article here.
We are also joining our partners in the fight against House Bill 3927, which seeks to ban state agencies, schools, and public institutions from promoting or funding diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, replacing them with so-called “merit-based policies.” DEI programs are essential for creating fair opportunities, addressing systemic discrimination, and fostering innovation through diverse perspectives. Eliminating these initiatives ignores historical inequities, limits opportunities for marginalized communities, and undermines efforts to create inclusive and equitable workplaces and educational environments. At WREN, we oppose any legislation that restricts people’s ability to earn a living, secure a job, and build a better future. We stand with our partners in this fight and will continue to support efforts to protect equity for all. You can help us fight against this bill here.
This Week (March 4 – March 6)
The House Constitutional Laws subcommittee hearing for House Bill 3457, the total abortion ban, is Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 9:00am in the Blatt Building, Room 110. If you have not already, use this link to tell committee members you oppose this legislation.
The hearing for House Bill 3927 is also Tuesday, March 4, 2025, 1.5 hours after adjournment in the Blatt Building, Room 110.
If you are able, we would love for you to attend one or both hearings. The most powerful way to fight back is to show up and make your voice heard, whether by testifying, attending, or contacting your legislator. If you would like more information about how to take action ahead of the hearings, please email us at kdattilio@scwren.org.
Moving Forward:
House budget deliberations are scheduled for March 11-13. We will continue to monitor developments, advocate for key issues, and keep you updated as the session progresses.
Together, we can advocate for a more equitable future for women and girls in South Carolina.