March 24, 2006
Late School Start Bill Progressing Through Senate
The uniform late school start bill (H. 4429) is still moving in the right direction with the Senate passing it during a second reading this week. The third reading could come as early as next Tuesday due to a special order that puts it toward the top of the list, and we feel confident the bill will make it to the governor’s desk soon. There’s a rumor that a certain senator is going to try to filibuster, but there should be enough votes to quell that effort relatively quickly.
Gov. Sanford told local media this week that he definitely would sign the bill, thus making 2007 the first year South Carolina schools would be mandated to start no earlier than the third Monday in August.
Let’s Get Ready to Rumble!
Looks like next week will be the week House members will pull out the gloves and start hashing out the state budget. So far, it looks like the Grand Strand should fare well if there aren’t too many changes. In addition to increased funds for SCPRT, the budget in its current state has funds dedicated to the Children’s Museum, I-73, I-74 and the two-to-one tourism dollar match for destination marketing.
Thumbs Up to Congressman Henry Brown, who is a friend not only to the Grand Strand but also to our Canadian neighbors. Congressman Brown is heavily involved in friendly discussion in many forms, including a Canadian caucus, to ensure Canadians continue to feel welcome in the United States – especially along the Grand Strand.
Thumbs Up to Sens. Luke Rankin, Ray Cleary and Dick Elliott for their hard work and effort regarding the uniform late school start bill. Our senators have been successfully pushing hard for the Senate to adopt the House’s version of the bill, which will allow it to become law more quickly.
Did you know?
The highest point in South Carolina is Sassafras Mountain at 3,560 feet above sea level, and when on the summit, you can see four states - Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee. Sassafras Mountain is located in Pickens County and is open to the public without restriction. For more information, you can contact Table Rock State Park at (864) 878-9813.
