Dear Constituents,

Last week at the State House, we continued delivering real results for South Carolina families—cutting taxes, strengthening public safety, and advancing commonsense legislation that protects our communities, supports families, and defends our state’s future. From putting more money back in your pocket to standing up for our local industries and protecting our children, we’re focused on getting the basics right and keeping government accountable to you.

 Income Tax Cut Signed into Law

Last week, H.4216, which I was proud to sponsor, was officially signed into law—delivering meaningful, immediate tax relief for hardworking South Carolina families. This legislation provides over $308 million in relief, lowers the top income tax rate from 6% to 5.21%, and puts more money back into your paycheck—where it belongs.

Just as importantly, this bill puts South Carolina on a responsible path toward a simpler, flatter tax system, with the ultimate goal of eliminating the state income tax altogether. As our economy continues to grow and key financial benchmarks are met, income tax rates will continue to drop, moving us closer to zero in a way that is both sustainable and fiscally responsible.

This is not a tax swap as we’ve seen in other states. We are cutting taxes without shifting the burden elsewhere, focused on real relief today while building a stronger, more competitive future for South Carolina.

Protecting Our Communities & Local Industries

 We also advanced legislation that puts South Carolina first and protects the people who power our economy. The Truth in Labeling Bill (H.4248) passed the House unanimously—ensuring consumers know exactly where their seafood comes from and stopping imported products from being passed off as local. This is a win for our coastal communities and a fair shot for South Carolina shrimpers.

 H.3408 advanced out of the House Judiciary Committee to protect South Carolina land and critical resources from foreign adversaries. This bill restricts foreign ownership of agricultural land and property near sensitive military and infrastructure sites, helping safeguard our farmland, strengthen national security, and ensure South Carolina’s future stays in the hands of Americans, not hostile foreign actors.

 H.4641 also advanced out of the House Judiciary Committee, closing loopholes on dangerous, highly concentrated synthetic kratom products. This is a commonsense step to protect public health and keep harmful substances off our shelves.

Supporting Families & Protecting Children

 I had the privilege of supporting H.4756, the Student Physical Privacy Act, which was sent to the Governor’s desk. This legislation puts commonsense protections in place to protect student privacy, uphold safety in our schools, and ensure parents—not government—are in control.

 S.32 also passed both chambers, providing tax incentives to support pregnancy resource centers, maternity homes, and organizations that serve women, children, and victims of human trafficking—expanding real support for those who need it most.

 In a unanimous vote, the House passed H.4611, ensuring that mothers of stillborn babies receive paid parental leave. This compassionate measure provides support to families during one of the most difficult moments they can face, and it reflects our commitment to standing with South Carolinians in times of both joy and hardship.

 H.5201 Safe School Act, advanced through the House Education Committee,  strengthening coordination between law enforcement and schools to ensure every child and every teacher is safe in the classroom.

Proud to be working with Representative Oremus to get results for Aiken County.

It was a pleasure to host South Aiken Baptist Christian School at the State House last week.

Dear Constituents,

It was another busy and productive week in Columbia, focused on delivering real results—strengthening public safety, protecting our children, and working to lower costs for South Carolina families.

Here’s a look at what we worked on last week and what it means for you:

Public Safety & Protecting Our Communities

 The House passed the Immigration Enforcement Partnership Act (H.4764), strengthening coordination between state and federal law enforcement. I supported this effort to give local officers clearer tools, training, and authority to work alongside federal partners and help ensure more consistent enforcement across South Carolina.

 We also passed “Fargo’s Law” (H.3034), to increase penalties for those who harm law enforcement animals. These K9s and horses are highly trained partners that help track criminals and protect officers, and this ensures they are properly protected under the law.

 The House also passed H.4804, strengthening penalties for the sexual exploitation of minors. I supported this legislation to close dangerous loopholes, increase minimum sentences, and ensure repeat offenders face real prison time.

 Work also continued on legislation (H.3408), to prevent foreign adversaries from purchasing land in South Carolina—an important step in protecting our farmland, infrastructure, and long-term security.

Protecting Children & Strengthening Schools

 The House unanimously passed the Tenure Accountability Act (H.4761), bringing more transparency and accountability to our public colleges and universities. This ensures regular evaluations, stronger performance standards, and better outcomes for students.

 The House passed the Stop Harm from Addictive Social Media (SHASM) Act (H.4591), which puts safeguards in place to protect kids online. This bill targets addictive features like endless scrolling and autoplay, strengthens age verification, and gives parents more control over their children’s screen time and content.

Lowering Costs & Supporting Families

 The House passed the Insurance Rate Reduction and Policyholder Protection Act (H.4817), a major step toward lowering premiums for South Carolina families. This legislation aims to crack down on fraud and abuse, increase transparency, and help homeowners reduce risk and lower costs over time.

 Work also continued on the Pregnancy Care Tax Credit (S.32), which supports organizations providing real, on-the-ground help to mothers and families—from counseling to essential supplies—ensuring they have the resources to continue serving communities across our state.

Stay Informed: 

If you ever have questions, concerns, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your input is invaluable to me and helps ensure that I am representing your needs effectively.

If you haven’t already, please share the link below with your friends and neighbors so they can sign up for my weekly newsletter and stay updated too:

Don't forget to join me on Facebook.

Keep up with the SC House GOP Caucus on Facebook or Twitter!

Important Links:

• For updates from the Governor, visit: https://governor.sc.gov

• To track a bill, live stream session or meetings, and other information, visit the State Legislature website: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/index.php

• To download the SC Legislature Mobile app for iOS and Android devices, search “SC Legislature” on the App Store/Google Play.

My job is to serve you. If you have questions, contact me by email at

Charlie@CharlieHartz.com or phone at (803) 341-1210.

It is my honor to represent you in the S.C. State House.

With gratitude,

State Rep. Charlie Hartz

District 81, Aiken County

Dear Constituents,

It was another busy and productive week in Columbia, focused on delivering real results—lowering costs, strengthening public safety, and supporting South Carolina families.

Here’s a look at what I worked on last week for District 81:

Affordability & Tax Relief

 Last week, the South Carolina Boat Tax Act (H.3858)—a major step for boat owners across South Carolina—is now headed to the Governor’s desk. This legislation cuts boat property taxes nearly in half, eliminates double taxation on motors, and simplifies the process into one easy payment.

In a top boating state like ours, this is about fairness — lowering costs, cutting unnecessary red tape, and making it more affordable for families to enjoy our lakes and coast.

 Work also continued in subcommittee on the Pregnancy Care Tax Credit Act (S.32), which takes a new approach to supporting women, children, and families. This bill encourages private donations to pregnancy resource centers, maternity homes, and programs that support victims of human trafficking—without growing government—while expanding access to critical services like prenatal care, housing, and parenting support.

 The House also passed H.4799, to cut red tape and expand access to care for our veterans. By removing unnecessary barriers, this allows veterans’ homes to be built and expanded more quickly—helping ensure those who served can access care without delays.

Protecting Children & Strengthening Schools

 The Stop Harm from Addictive Social Media (SHASM) Act (H.4591) advanced out of committee this week. The bill targets addictive features like autoplay videos and late-night notifications, while giving parents more control over their children’s screen time.

 We also passed the Smart Heart Act (H.3831), ensuring schools are better prepared to respond to cardiac emergencies. By requiring accessible AEDs and trained staff, this legislation helps make sure help is there when every second matters.

Trump Highway Resolution Passes Senate

 The Senate has officially passed the Donald J. Trump Highway Resolution.

President Donald J. Trump secured the federal permit that made I-73 shovel-ready after decades of delays—bringing jobs, economic growth, and stronger hurricane evacuation routes to the Grand Strand and Pee Dee. 

Public Safety & Law Enforcement

 The House passed the K9 Officer and Horse Protection Bill (H.3034) to strengthen penalties for those who harm law enforcement animals. These K9s are critical partners in keeping our communities safe.

 Legislation addressing illegal street takeovers (H.4292) also moved forward this week. These reckless events put lives at risk and disrupt communities, and this bill gives law enforcement stronger tools to stop them.

 Work also continues on legislation (H.3408) to prevent foreign adversaries from purchasing or owning farmland in South Carolina—an important step in protecting our food supply, strengthening our economy, and safeguarding our long-term security. Protecting our land is critical to South Carolina’s future.

Had a great visit with the Palmetto Nuclear Coalition to discuss the important role nuclear energy plays in our state’s future.

The $2.5 million Meals on Wheels campaign for Aiken Senior Life Services wrapped up, and the Aiken delegation recognized campaign leader, Bill Reynolds, with a joint resolution from the General Assembly.

Aiken Delegation with Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette.

It was One Big Beautiful Budget Week at the State House.

This week, we passed a strong conservative budget, advanced major tax cuts, and adopted key provisions from President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill so South Carolinians can keep more of what they earn.

 More investment in infrastructure.

 More tax relief for families.

 More conservative results.

Here’s what it means for you:

 State Budget: Investing in South Carolina’s Future

This week, I voted to pass a responsible state budget that strengthens infrastructure, supports our schools, and prepares South Carolina for continued growth.

Key investments include:

• $500 million for roads, bridges, and interstate improvements

• $95 million for K-12 school facilities and safety upgrades

• $371+ million for higher education infrastructure

• $175 million for construction of a comprehensive cancer hospital at MUSC

• $70 million for airport improvements to support freight and tourism

• $24.5 million for the Palmetto 800 system supporting emergency responders

The budget also supports teacher pay increases, workforce development programs, and scholarships for South Carolina students.

At the same time, it includes nearly $1 billion in total tax relief, helping families keep more of their hard-earned money.

 Bringing Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill” to South Carolina

I also supported the Tax Conformity Bill, which adopts key provisions from President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill so South Carolinians can benefit from these tax cuts.

This includes:

 NO TAX ON TIPS
 NO TAX ON OVERTIME
 NO TAX ON SOCIAL SECURITY

These changes help ensure that South Carolina families and workers can fully benefit from the tax relief being delivered at the federal level.

 Cutting South Carolina’s Income Tax

In addition, I voted to advance a major income tax reform plan that continues our work to lower taxes and grow South Carolina’s economy.

This legislation:

• Cuts the state income tax rate from 6% to 5.21% immediately

• Puts South Carolina on a path to a 1.99% flat income tax rate

• Ensures over 77% of taxpayers will see a tax cut or no increase in their taxes

Lower taxes mean stronger economic growth, more job creation, and more opportunity for South Carolina families.

Stay Informed: 

If you ever have questions, concerns, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your input is invaluable to me and helps ensure that I am representing your needs effectively.

If you haven’t already, please share the link below with your friends and neighbors so they can sign up for my weekly newsletter and stay updated too:

Don't forget to join me on Facebook.

Keep up with the SC House GOP Caucus on Facebook or Twitter!

Important Links:

• For updates from the Governor, visit: https://governor.sc.gov

• To track a bill, live stream session or meetings, and other information, visit the State Legislature website: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/index.php

• To download the SC Legislature Mobile app for iOS and Android devices, search “SC Legislature” on the App Store/Google Play.

My job is to serve you. If you have questions, contact me by email at

Charlie@CharlieHartz.com or phone at (803) 341-1210.

It is my honor to represent you in the S.C. State House.

With gratitude,

State Rep. Charlie Hartz

District 81, Aiken County

Dear Constituents,

This week at the State House, House Republicans focused on legislation that strengthens public safety, helps families keep more of their hard-earned money, and puts South Carolina first. I remain committed to supporting policies that protect our communities, defend taxpayers, and keep South Carolina strong.

Here’s a quick update on the work taking place at the State House.

 Fighting for Affordability

I will continue supporting policies that help South Carolinians keep more of what they earn and protect families from rising costs. This week, the House Ways and Means Committee advanced H.3368, South Carolina’s tax conformity legislation. The bill aligns the state’s tax code with federal provisions so taxpayers can benefit from federal tax relief measures, including provisions from the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” while also simplifying the filing process and preventing unexpected tax increases. I believe lower taxes and responsible fiscal policy are essential to keeping South Carolina affordable and competitive.

 Watch this message from Rep. Bannister!

 The Insurance Rate Reduction and Policyholder Protection Act (H.4817) advanced in the House Labor, Commerce, and Industry Committee this week. This legislation focuses on bringing greater transparency and oversight to insurance rate increases while strengthening protections for policyholders. The goal is to make coverage more affordable and accessible for South Carolina families while ensuring consumers are treated fairly and protected from unfair practices.

 Public Safety Week at the State House

Protecting our communities and supporting law enforcement will always be one of my top priorities. This week, the House passed a juvenile crime reform package focused on holding violent offenders accountable and improving communication between law enforcement, schools, and families.

H.5120 helps law enforcement better identify repeat juvenile offenders by requiring fingerprinting and photographs and improving information sharing.

H.4151 allows certain 16- and 17-year-olds charged with serious violent crimes to be prosecuted in adult court when appropriate.

Together, these bills give our justice system better tools to respond to violent crime and help ensure serious offenses carry serious consequences. Both bills now head to the Senate for consideration.

 Read the Press Release here!

 The House also passed the HALO Act (H.4763), a bill I proudly co-sponsored, which better protects the law enforcement officers and first responders who serve our communities every day. This bill creates a 25-foot buffer zone to prevent harassment or interference while they are responding to active situations, allowing them to focus on doing their jobs and protecting lives. It’s a simple but important step to make sure the men and women who put themselves in harm’s way for us have the support and protection they deserve.

 Fargo’s, Hyco’s, Rico’s, Coba’s, Wick’s, and Mikka’s Law (H.3034) advanced out of the House Judiciary Subcommittee this week, strengthening penalties for those who harm or kill a law enforcement horse or K9 officer. Handlers and K9 officers from 40 counties across South Carolina came to the State House to advocate for the bill and stand up for the K9s who serve alongside them. These highly trained dogs track dangerous criminals, protect their handlers, and play a vital role in keeping our communities safe.

 Watch this recap video of the hearing on Wednesday!

 Street takeovers are reckless and dangerous events that put lives at risk. H.4292 cracks down on these illegal gatherings and holds participants accountable. The bill passed the House Judiciary Criminal Law Subcommittee this week and now moves forward in the legislative process, giving law enforcement stronger tools to stop dangerous behavior and keep our roads safe.

 Watch this message from Rep. Martin!

 Putting South Carolina First

Chinese Telecommunications Ownership Prohibition (H.4974) passed the House Medical, Military, Public, and Municipal Affairs (3M) Committee this week, taking an important step to protect South Carolina’s military installations and national security. The bill creates a 25-mile buffer zone around state and federal military bases, prohibiting companies owned or controlled by the Chinese Communist Party from owning land for telecommunications or broadcasting towers near these installations. It also requires certain equipment to be replaced with American-made technology installed by U.S. companies, helping ensure critical infrastructure near our bases remains secure.

 The House passed H.4982, designating the future Interstate-73 as the PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP HIGHWAY. President Trump played a key role in advancing this project, championing infrastructure that strengthens our economy, supports American workers, and connects communities across the country.

Naming this future interstate in his honor recognizes his leadership and commitment to building a stronger America.

 Watch this message from Rep. Ammons Crawford!

Dear Constituents,

Last week in Columbia, I worked to advance legislation that strengthens public safety, supports our schools, and protects South Carolina values. Through committee work and votes on the House floor, I focused on delivering results that protect your family, defend your freedoms, and strengthen our state’s future.

Here’s what I worked on last week and what it means for you:

 South Carolina Jobs First

Finally, the Buy American Iron & Steel Act (H.4709) passed the House unanimously last week. This important legislation ensures taxpayer dollars prioritize American-made iron and steel in state-funded projects, strengthening domestic manufacturing and supporting South Carolina jobs. The House is putting America First — right here in South Carolina!

I also supported advancing the Workforce Readiness bill (H.3197) to better prepare South Carolina students for success after graduation. This legislation strengthens career training, expands pathways to industry credentials, and aligns education with workforce needs. These reforms help students build real skills and help South Carolina build a stronger workforce.

 Fighting for Our Students

Last week, I voted to pass the Historic Displays & Chaplains in Schools Act (H.4762). This legislation ensures schools display foundational historical documents — including the Ten Commandments, as part of an educational presentation highlighting the documents that shaped American law and government. It also allows schools to establish volunteer chaplain programs to provide additional support for students.

I believe students should learn the full story of American history and understand the values that built our country. This legislation strengthens civic education and supports students across South Carolina.

The Truth in Public School Grading bill (H.5073) advanced out of the Education & Public Works Committee. Parents deserve transparency and honesty when it comes to their child’s academic progress. This legislation ensures grading policies reflect real achievement and provide families with clear, accurate information, because high standards and honest feedback are essential to preparing students for success in college, careers, and life.

Supporting Our First Responders & Public Safety

Last week, the HALO Act (H.4763), a bill I proudly co-sponsored, advanced out of the full Judiciary Committee, sending a clear message that South Carolina backs the brave men and women who serve on the front lines. By establishing a 25-foot safety radius, this bill ensures law enforcement officers and first responders have the space they need to act quickly, decisively, and safely in high-pressure moments. It also strengthens penalties for those who harass, obstruct, or assault them while they are simply trying to do their job. When lives are on the line, interference isn’t just disruptive, it’s dangerous.

I also supported advancing a comprehensive Juvenile Crime Reform Package (H.4151, H.5120, H.5121) to crack down on serious youth violence and restore order in our communities. These bills ensure violent juvenile offenders face real consequences, strengthen coordination between schools and law enforcement when major crimes occur, and invest in prevention efforts that reinforce discipline and accountability. This is a firm but fair approach, public safety comes first, and serious crimes will carry serious consequences, no matter the offender’s age.

In addition, the Immigration Enforcement bill (H.4764) passed out of Judiciary Subcommittee – another bill I’m co-sponsoring. This legislation strengthens cooperation between state and local law enforcement and federal authorities to ensure individuals who are in our country unlawfully and commit crimes are properly identified and processed. A growing number of law enforcement agencies across our state are already implementing these partnerships and taking proactive steps to uphold the rule of law — and that’s exactly why we are working to pass this legislation statewide: to support their efforts and ensure every community has the tools it needs to keep families safe. Protecting our communities remains a core responsibility, and public safety will always come first.

Learn more about the growing number of Counties in South Carolina who are already implementing this program and working to keep their communities safe here.

Photos From Last Week:

Thank you to the nursing students from the University of South Carolina Aiken for visiting the State House.

Your commitment to caring for others and stepping into leadership roles in healthcare is inspiring. South Carolina’s future is stronger because of students like you.

Stay Informed: 

If you ever have questions, concerns, or ideas, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Your input is invaluable to me and helps ensure that I am representing your needs effectively.

If you haven’t already, please share the link below with your friends and neighbors so they can sign up for my weekly newsletter and stay updated too:

Don't forget to join me on Facebook.

Keep up with the SC House GOP Caucus on Facebook or Twitter!

Important Links:

• For updates from the Governor, visit: https://governor.sc.gov

• To track a bill, live stream session or meetings, and other information, visit the State Legislature website: https://www.scstatehouse.gov/index.php

• To download the SC Legislature Mobile app for iOS and Android devices, search “SC Legislature” on the App Store/Google Play.

My job is to serve you. If you have questions, contact me by email at

Charlie@CharlieHartz.com or phone at (803) 341-1210.

It is my honor to represent you in the S.C. State House.

With gratitude,