Catholic Women’s Day took place at the State House Feb. 28. Over 50 women from across South Carolina joined together to tour the Capitol, learn about the legislative process, and meet with lawmakers. The group was recognized on the floor of the House of Representatives.  

We give a special thanks to Reps. Mark Smith and Shannon Erickson, Sen. Sean Bennett and Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette for their warm welcome. 

See more details on this week's highlights below!

 

Feb 28

Members of the House and State Superintendent of Education Ellen Weaver held a press conference to introduce H. 5164, a new bill that would expand school choice to all South Carolina families. All families would have access to the Education Scholarship Trust Fund (ESTF) that passed into law last year. 
 
Currently, the ESTF program is available only to families with lower incomes. Scholarships are $6,000 per child annually and can be used for any eligible education costs, such as private school tuition, homeschool materials, tutors and any other approved expense. 

The South Carolina Catholic Conference commends Rep. Shannon Erickson for her sponsorship of this important legislation that can give all families more freedom to choose which form of education best suits their children.

The House Education and Public Works subcommittee will meet on Tuesday, March 5 after the Education full committee meets. Since it is unclear exactly what time this meeting will begin, the Catholic Conference asks you to send a letter of support if you cannot be present at the hearing. 

Click HERE to send a letter to your representative.  

Feb 29

The Senate Medical Affairs Committee passed H. 4624 (Gender Reassignment Procedures) to the Senate floor by a vote of 10-6. The Catholic Conference thanks Chairman Danny Verdin for his leadership on this issue.

Children with gender dysphoria must be reminded of their inherent worth as living reflections of the Creator. They are not supported or affirmed by putting them on mind and body altering puberty blockers and medications that will have permanent effects on their natural development. 

Click HERE to urge your senator to pass this bill to protect minors from these harmful procedures.