S. 32, the Pregnancy Resource Act, was heard in the Senate’s Sales & Income Tax Subcommittee on Tuesday. The bill, primarily sponsored by Sen. Larry Grooms, was passed to the full committee unanimously.
Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade and the institution of the South Carolina Heartbeat law in 2023, the need for pregnancy centers and other pro-life organizations has only increased. These organizations offer the support that pregnant women, their families and babies need to flourish.
If signed into law, this bill will provide a 50% tax credit for any donation to an approved pregnancy center or other approved pro-life, pro-family organization. The body of Christ — His Church — has a responsibility to care for those in need. This law would empower South Carolinians to support local organizations that help women choose life.
Please join the Catholic Conference in support of the bill on Tuesday, Mar. 18 at 3 p.m. in room 105 in the Gressette building, when the full Finance committee will take up the bill. 

First – The House and Senate have sponsored legislation to welcome gambling into our state. These bills, S. 444 and H. 4176, would promote an addictive activity and behavior that goes against the best interests of citizens. Gambling takes advantage of the poor and vulnerable. 
The Catholic Conference strongly opposes this legislation and all bills that seek to support addictive gambling and betting activities in South Carolina. 

Second — The Senate Judiciary found S. 235, increased penalties for prostitution bill, favorable with amendment and sent the bill to the Senate floor. The bill could be debated and voted on as early as next week. It was sponsored primarily by Sen. Josh Kimbrell.
The bill will increase penalties for human traffickers and strengthen state law against trafficking. As Pope Francis said, “Saint Bakhita encourages us to open our eyes and ears to see those who go unseen and to hear those who have no voice, to acknowledge the dignity of each person, and to fight trafficking and all forms of exploitation” (Vatican News, read more HERE).
The South Carolina Catholic Conference and the Diocese of Charleston is committed to fighting trafficking in our state and around the world.