Legislative Session Weekly Update, April 7-April 9
The Week in Review (April 7-9):
Here’s what happened during week thirteen of legislative session, what’s at stake, and how you can take action to help build a better South Carolina for women and girls.
Last week, the House was on furlough and did not hold any floor debates or committee hearings. The Senate convened in a perfunctory session, meaning it did not meet on the floor; however, both the Senate Finance and Senate Judiciary Committees held meetings. During this time, Senate Finance advanced its version of the budget in preparation for full Senate budget week, which begins April 20.
Anti-Transgender Bathroom Bill
Two weeks ago, the Senate passed House Bill 4756, a harmful anti-transgender bathroom bill, after adding several changes. Because of these changes, the bill must now go back to the House for another vote. The House will decide whether to accept the Senate’s version. If they do, the bill will move to the Governor’s desk. The House has paused debate on this bill until April 14, which is later this week. This bill is harmful in any form. However, the version first passed by the House would limit some of that harm and better protect people than the version changed by the Senate. We need the House to stand firm and reject these changes. Please use the SC United action link to contact your representative as soon as possible and urge them not to accept the Senate amendments.
Total Abortion Ban
A hearing for Senate Bill 1095, a total abortion ban, has been scheduled for Monday, April 14 at 9:00 AM. This bill would ban abortion in nearly all cases, including rape and incest, restrict access to medication abortion, and could penalize those who help someone obtain care. WREN believes people, not politicians, should make decisions about pregnancy, their health, and their futures, and this bill would cause real harm to our communities. While all testifier spots have been filled, we still encourage supporters to show up if they are able, submit written testimony, and take action using our action link to urge lawmakers to vote no on Senate Bill 1095.
Thank you for staying engaged and taking action. We’ll continue to share updates and ways to get involved as the session moves forward. WREN will remain active at the State House and keep monitoring these issues in the week ahead.