In a tense and contentious debate, the South Carolina House passed a $14 billion spending plan with a vote of 99-13 after nearly 20 hours of discussion over two days. A small group of Republicans known as the Freedom Caucus, aiming to cut $1 billion from the state’s budget, demanded massive spending cuts without providing much detail.
The Freedom Caucus proposed cutting funding from various agencies and ending tuition freezes at state colleges to lower South Carolina’s income tax rate. However, mainstream Republicans criticized their efforts, accusing them of making campaign speeches rather than trying to run the government better.
Despite their efforts, all proposed changes by the Freedom Caucus were voted down, including a suggestion to cut 10 cents from the Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism budget just to prove a point. The House budget plan includes freezing tuition for in-state students, a $1,500 raise for all teachers, funding for Hurricane Helene relief, and increased health insurance premiums for state employees.
Republican leaders defended the budget, stating it was carefully crafted with input from Gov. Henry McMaster and hearings by the Ways and Means Committee. They emphasized the importance of prioritizing education, public safety, and infrastructure.
The budget debate reflects ongoing divisions within the South Carolina House, with tensions running high between different factions of the Republican party. Despite the challenges, the House ultimately passed the spending plan, sending it to the Senate for further consideration.
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